Abderrazak Hamdallah secured his place as a prolific international striker by netting 57 goals during the 2019 calendar year, a tally that stood as the highest global figure for that period. Known as The Executioner, the Moroccan footballer has navigated a diverse professional path through leagues across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Early Development in Safi
Born on 17 December 1990 in Safi, Morocco, Hamdallah was the youngest of seven children. He began playing football in the local streets before joining a town club as a teenager. His formal formation occurred at Nejm Shabab Safi, leading to his professional debut with Olympic Club de Safi during the 2010–11 Botola season. By the 2012–13 campaign, he had established himself as a potent scorer, prompting a transfer to Norwegian side Aalesund in March 2013 for approximately one million US dollars.
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Hamdallah joined Aalesund on a three-year contract, becoming the first player from the Moroccan championship to move to Norway. He finished his inaugural season with 15 goals in 27 appearances and earned a spot in the Team of the Year. In February 2014, he moved to Chinese Super League side Guangzhou R&F for a fee of 4.5 million euros. His time in China proved productive despite mid-tenure leg injuries, ending in his departure in July 2015.
Middle Eastern Success
In 2015, Hamdallah signed with the Qatari club El Jaish, where he secured the 2016 Qatar Cup. He later moved to Al-Rayyan in 2017 before joining Al-Nassr in August 2018. His tenure in Saudi Arabia was marked by significant statistical achievements, including a 34-goal haul during the 2018–19 Saudi Pro League season and a record-breaking performance in the 2019 King's Cup. Following his time with Al-Nassr, he represented Al-Ittihad and Al-Shabab.
International Career
A Moroccan international since 2012, Hamdallah appeared in the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His national team service concluded at the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup; he helped the squad win the final tournament before retiring from international play the following day. In recognition of his contributions to the sport, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the Throne in 2022.
Fast facts
- Born: 17 December 1990, Safi, Morocco
- Nickname: The Executioner
- Awards: Officer of the Order of the Throne (2022)
- 2019 Global Goal Record: 57 goals
- Primary Position: Striker
- Professional debut: 2010–11 Botola season
Questions readers ask
Which clubs did Hamdallah play for in Saudi Arabia?
He played for Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, Al-Shabab, and Al-Taawoun.
When did he retire from the national team?
He retired the day after the final of the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup.
