Dubai: Oman keeper Ali Al Habsi has left Wigan Athletic by mutual consent, it was announced on Monday.
The 33-year-old’s contract had expired and the club will not renew the agreement following their relegation from the English Championship this season.
Al Habsi spent five years with the Latics and won player of the season in 2011 for helping keep the Manchester side in the English Premier League (EPL) while on loan from Bolton Wanderers.
The Mudhaibi-born shot stopper then signed permanently and went on to play a major role in getting Wigan to the FA Cup final in 2013, but he missed the final, which they won with a 1-0 victory over Manchester City, due to injury.
Scott Carson replaced Al Habsi in goal and became first choice keeper after the side were relegated from the EPL. Al Habsi only made one appearance last season while on loan to Brighton and Hove Albion.
“I guess it’s time to say goodbye after a wonderful five years spent with Wigan Athletic,” Al Habsi said on Instagram.
“I am proud that I participated in more than 150 official matches, which consisted of 100 matches in the Premier League. “A big thank you from the heart to the club and the fans for their continuous support and love. Without your provision and support we wouldn’t have won the FA Cup and I wouldn’t have won the player of the season award in 2011.
“Thank you to all the fans from my beloved country Oman and the Middle East. You have always cheered and encouraged me to move forward regardless of any obstacles facing me. I am pleased that you stood next to me on my 13 years that I spent with different European clubs.
“I have lived an exceptional experience playing in the strongest league, the Premier League, and I hope that it will continue more. Most of you really wish to know my next move, which I think will be clear in June.”
Al Habsi remains the most successful GCC-born Arab to have played in Europe.
