Doha: Qatar’s football powerhouse Al Sadd yesterday announced they have made peace with former player Abdelkarim Hassan.

The defender, who made 190 appearances for Al Sadd from 2010–2022, had left in unceremonious terms after the club said Hassan’s contract termination was not on mutual terms and would take legal action against the player and Al Jahra club.

Hassan had joined Kuwait’s Al Jahra club after leaving Al Sadd. He then went on to play for Iran giants Persepolis. The rumour mills suggest Hassan is set to join Al Arabi ahead of the new season and on the eve of his return to Qatar, Al Sadd released a statement saying they have reached ‘an amicable resolution’ with the player.

“The management of Al Sadd Club is pleased to announce that an amicable resolution has been reached with Abdelkarim Hassan, allowing both parties to move past previous differences,” the club said on their website.

“This evening, Abdelkarim visited the Al Sadd Club premises and met with Mohamed Ghanem Al Ali, the head of the football department. Abdelkarim emphasised that his relationship with Al Sadd is significant and historic, marked by numerous achievements and cherished moments. He stated that no difference in opinion could ever tarnish this bond. He expressed his deep respect and appreciation for Al Sadd Club and reaffirmed his loyalty to this esteemed institution.

“Abdelkarim Hassan remains one of the club’s devoted players, and Al Sadd warmly welcomes his initiative and visit, thanking him for this commendable gesture. The club wishes Abdelkarim the very best in his future endeavours,” the statement added.

Hassan had found himself in hot waters after Qatar’s debacle in the 2022 FIFA World Cup at home. He was handed an indefinite suspension by the Qatar football federation (QFA) following an altercation with a fan over social media.

Following the group stage exit at the World Cup, Hassan responded to a complaint on SnapChat about team’s poor show by posting, “Relax, do you think it’s war?” Hassan was also deducted 50% of his salary, fined 200,000 Qatari riyals and issued a warning by the QFA.