South Sudanese footballer Joseph Loro is heading to Lebanon after completing his agreement with Al Abassieh FC, where he will begin a new chapter of his professional career.
The 22-year-old midfielder is scheduled to travel to Lebanon at 9:30 p.m. after receiving his visa, following several weeks of negotiations with the club.
Loro said the transfer took shape after the Lebanese side contacted him and later sent him a contract.
“They contacted me for like three weeks, and then they sent me the contract. I was just waiting for the visa, and the visa came out. That’s why I’m now able to travel,” Loro said.
He confirmed that the contract has already been signed and will run for one year, with the possibility of a further season if both parties agree.
“I have signed it already. It’s actually one year plus one year extension with both parties,” he said.
‘A Good Step’ for Loro’s Career
The former South Sudan U20 captain believes playing abroad will provide an important opportunity to continue developing as a footballer.
“Honestly, I think it’s a good step for me to sharpen my career, to play abroad. It will help the country and help me to help my national team,” Loro said.
His move comes shortly after his departure from the South Sudan U23 national team, following CAF regulations on the age eligibility of players participating in the tournament.
A Player With International Experience
Loro has already established himself across several levels of South Sudanese football.
He captained the South Sudan U20 national team and helped the team finish second in the CECAFA Zone’s AFCON U20 qualifiers in Khartoum.
At club level, he was part of the Munuki SC side that won the Juba Football Association First Division League in the 2021–2022 season, ending the club’s 34-year wait for a league title.
He later joined El Merriekh SC Bentiu, where he won the South Sudan Cup, South Sudan Super Cup and South Sudan Premier League.
Loro has also gained experience outside the country through spells with Ojodu City in Nigeria and ASVO in Benin.
With his move to Al Abassieh FC, Loro now turns his attention to establishing himself in Lebanese football and using the experience to continue his development and contribute to the South Sudan national team.