Born in Maysan in the south of Iraq, Al Hamadi never played professional football in his country of birth. Instead, he came through the ranks at Tranmere Rovers and Swansea City, having emigrated to the UK with his parents from an early age.

Following a move to AFC Wimbledon in the third tier of English football, Al Hamadi grew into one of the most important players of his team, with eight goals in 17 games and a League Two September Player of The Month to his name already this season.“He’s an unbelievable lad. He’s a tough boy, a tough upbringing which has been well documented. He’s a tough scouse lad, he’s a joy to work with.

“There’s no player I would rather have than Ali. We’re lucky to have him.”
The forward won his first cap for Iraq two years ago against Syria, going on to break his international duck with a goal against India in the 2023 King’s Cup, then registered his first qualifiers goal in a 5-1 triumph against Indonesia in front of 64,000 fans in Basra. A moment he reflects on with pride.

“It is an amazing feeling to score for your country,” said Al Hamadi, speaking to the PFA after winning the League Two Player of the Month award.

“I don’t think many people can have that experience, so I feel genuinely grateful. We have got a great chance to qualify to the next FIFA World Cup, so it is an honour and a privilege for me to go and play there after everything my family has been through. It is amazing.”