Al Hilal winger Jean Claude Girumugisha has completed a high-profile move to Libyan champions Al Ahli Tripoli after the club reportedly agreed a $5.5 million deal with the Sudanese giants. The Burundi international enjoyed a standout season with Al Hilal, helping the club win the BK Pro League title in their debut campaign in Rwanda and earning the league’s Player of the Season award. Girumugisha, 21, was officially unveiled by Al Ahli Tripoli on August 17, bringing an end to weeks of speculation over his future. The winger had already been training with the Libyan side and featured in friendly matches while negotiations with Al Hilal were being finalised. He attracted interest from several clubs, including Tanzanian giants Young Africans (Yanga) and Moroccan side Raja Casablanca, but Al Ahli Tripoli moved quickly to secure his services. Girumugisha is also reportedly set to earn around $200,000 per month, which would amount to approximately $2.4 million annually. Born in Bujumbura, Girumugisha joined Al Hilal from Magara Young Boys in September 2023 and quickly established himself as one of the club’s key attacking players. During his spell in Sudan, he made 27 CAF Champions League appearances, scoring five goals and providing two assists. His performances earned him growing recognition across East African football, particularly after spending last season with Al Hilal in Rwanda. At Al Ahli Tripoli, Girumugisha will link up with several high-profile players, including former Pyramids FC forward Fiston Mayele, who also recently joined the Libyan champions. Shortly after his unveiling, Girumugisha bid farewell to Al Hilal’s management, teammates, coaches and supporters, describing his three-year spell at the club as “an unforgettable experience.” Niyomugabo agrees to Al-Merrikh move Meanwhile, APR FC left-back Claude Niyomugabo has reportedly agreed to join Sudanese giants Al-Merrikh SC on a two-year contract worth $50,000. The Rwanda international is expected to earn a monthly salary of $2,500, equivalent to approximately Rwf3.6 million, and will reunite with coach Darko Novic, who previously worked with him at APR FC. The move will mark Niyomugabo’s first experience playing for a club outside Rwanda. His departure brings an end to a seven-year spell with APR, where he established himself as one of the club’s most dependable defenders and senior figures. During his time with the army side, Niyomugabo helped APR win seven Rwanda Premier League titles, as well as several domestic trophies, including the Peace Cup.
