Royal Antwerp has secured the services of Ibrahim Salah following an official announcement on Tuesday. The 24-year-old Belgian-Moroccan winger arrives on loan from FC Basel, with a purchase option included in the agreement.
Return to Belgian Football
Salah returns to the Belgian Pro League after time away, marking a significant moment in his career trajectory. The versatile attacker trained at Union Saint-Gilloise and Beerschot during his formative years before launching his professional path with La Gantoise.
His journey took him to France in January 2023 when he joined Stade Rennais. While at the Breton outfit, Salah featured in 49 official matches across all competitions, a spell that included a temporary move to Stade Brestois for additional playing time.
The winger then relocated to Switzerland in September 2025, signing for FC Basel ahead of his current switch to Antwerp.
Tactical Flexibility and International Pedigree
Salah’s ability to operate across both flanks provides tactical options for his new club. His flexibility in the attacking third has been a defining characteristic throughout his career.
The forward represents Morocco at under-21 international level, demonstrating his development within a competitive pathway. His experience across multiple European leagues—Belgium, France, and Switzerland—adds depth to Antwerp’s attacking arsenal.
What This Means for Antwerp
The loan structure with a purchase option allows Antwerp to evaluate Salah’s fit within the squad without an immediate long-term financial commitment. Should the club decide the partnership works, converting the loan into a permanent transfer remains available as a pathway forward.
Salah’s previous exposure to Belgian football provides familiarity with the league’s demands, potentially easing his integration into the Antwerp setup. His time in top-tier competitions abroad demonstrates he has tested himself against quality opposition, bringing that experience to the club’s offensive planning.
The addition targets consistency and performance improvement as Antwerp shapes its attacking options for the remainder of the campaign and beyond.
