Abdulbaset Khalifa departs Kiwitea Street

Words: ACFC Media

Wednesday 17 February 2021

AUCKLAND, New Zealand - Abdulbaset Khalifa has parted ways with Auckland City FC and returned to Manukau United for the forthcoming 2021 season.

The former Canterbury United midfielder signed for the Navy Blues following a pre-season friendly between United and City last September.

Speaking to the club website, Khalifa said: "It's unfortunate I’ll be parting ways with Auckland City FC and heading back to Manukau for the winter.

But I wanted to say thank you to everyone, the players and the staff for the last few months.

"Auckland City FC has been a high quality environment to participate in and I'm really happy for the team and its recent form.

"I hope the club do well for the rest of this season and hopefully the club can win the ISPS Handa Premiership league title again - I hope to cross paths with everyone again very soon."

Khalifa made two appearances for Auckland City FC in the ISPS Handa Premiership starting with his debut off the bench in a 1-0 defeat to Canterbury United on 13 December, 2021.

His final match for the club came a week later in a 4-1 win over the Wellington Phoenix.

Coach Jose Figueira wished Abdulbaset all the best on his return to Centre Park.

"Abdulbaset was very popular with everyone connected with the first team, players and coaching staff alike, and we wish him all the best," he said.

Ends