SOCCER: Benteke joins UAE Pro League’s Al Wahda

Former Crystal Palace striker Christian Benteke has joined UAE Pro League side Al Wahda as a free agent, leaving D.C. United after three years. The 35-year-old Belgian aims to boost Al Wahda’s squad in the next stage of their campaign.

REUTERS

January 2, 2026

Jun 28, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; D.C. United forward Christian Benteke (20) looks on during the second half against the Nashville SC at Audi Field. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.

Daniel Kucin Jr.-

Former Crystal Palace striker Christian Benteke has joined UAE Pro League club Al Wahda as a free agent, the club announced on Thursday.

“Al Wahda Football Club announces the signing of Belgian professional Christian Benteke as part of the club management’s plans to strengthen the team and enhance its chances of success in the next stage,” the club said in a statement, without providing further details.

Benteke, who was born in Kinshasa, began his professional career at Genk in 2007 before moving to Aston Villa in 2012. He later played for Liverpool and Crystal Palace before joining D.C. United in 2022.

The 35-year-old confirmed his departure from the American side earlier this week on social media, ending a three-year stint with the club.

-Reporting by Taha Mohamed in Cairo; Editing by Pritha Sarkar/Reuters