Iraqi striker signs loan deal with Polish club
Iraqi forward Ali Al-Hamadi signs a loan deal with Poland's Rakow Częstochowa. The move follows his stint at English side Ipswich Town and is expected to add European experience to Iraq ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The team's last result was a 5-0 loss to Senegal on June 26, 2026.
Why does this transfer matter for the national team?
Al-Hamadi is one of Iraq's top scorers, yet he has only one goal this season, highlighting the need for improvement. Playing in the Polish league will give him regular matches against tougher opponents, potentially boosting his confidence before crucial qualifiers. He will also meet teammate Montazer Al-Majid in a Swedish side Hammarby clash, strengthening squad chemistry.
What are the transfer details?
Al-Hamadi moved to Ipswich Town at the end of 2024 for $2.2 million on a four‑and‑a‑half‑year contract. In 2025 he was loaned to Stoke City without a purchase option, then returned before the loan to Rakow Częstochowa was arranged. Despite offers from top‑flight English clubs, he chose Poland, turning down large financial incentives from Iraqi clubs.
What lies ahead for Al-Hamadi in Poland?
At Rakow Częstochowa, he will compete for a side aiming to return to the European Conference League after finishing fourth last season. The team will face Swedish club Hammarby in the conference qualifiers, where Al-Hamadi will join teammate Montazer Al-Majid. This stint could give him a strong push before Iraq's upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifying matches.
