Done Deal: Popoola Ridwan Completes Move to UAE Club Al Wasl
The 19 year old defensive midfielder joins the eight time UAE Pro League champions on a permanent transfer from Hungarian side Kisvarda.
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Popoola Ridwan’s rapid rise through the game has taken another significant step, with the Nigerian teenager completing a permanent transfer to Dubai giants Al Wasl.
Ridwan joins from Hungarian club Kisvarda, where he had been developing since February 2025 after his performances for Lagos grassroots side Seamoriow FC first caught the eye of scouts. His time in Hungarian football proved formative, helping him adapt to senior football and sharpen the composure, work rate, and ball-winning ability that ultimately attracted interest from outside Europe.
Seamoriow FC celebrated the move on social media, tracing Ridwan’s journey from their own academy through Olukismet FC and Kisvarda to his new club, and thanked those who helped make the transfer happen.
Al Wasl are one of the most decorated clubs in the United Arab Emirates, having won the UAE Pro League title a record-equalling eight times, most recently in the 2023-24 season. The Dubai club also has a notable place in football history, having been coached by Diego Maradona during the 2011 and 2012 seasons.
The move represents a considerable step up in level for Ridwan, and Al Wasl will be hoping his energy and defensive discipline can add depth to their midfield as they push for further silverware in the upcoming campaign.
Did You Know?
- Popoola Ridwan is 19 years old and began his career at Lagos-based grassroots club Seamoriow FC.
- He joined Hungarian side Kisvarda in February 2025 before this move to the UAE.
- Al Wasl have won the UAE Pro League title a record-equalling eight times.
- Their most recent league title came in the 2023-24 season.
- Al Wasl are based in Dubai and were once coached by Diego Maradona, who took charge of the club during the 2011 and 2012 seasons.
- Ridwan plays as a defensive midfielder.
- His move to Al Wasl was completed as a permanent transfer, not a loan.
