Shihab: A Journey Through Global Football
From the prestigious academies of England to the competitive leagues of Iceland and the Philippines, Shihab has carved a diverse path through the world of professional soccer. His career is a testament to adaptability, spanning multiple continents and various levels of competitive play.
Early Development at Brighton & Hove Albion
Shihab's professional journey began in August 2014 when he joined the academy of Brighton & Hove Albion following a successful trial. He spent several years honing his skills within the youth system, eventually making his debut for the under-18 team during the 2016–17 season.
In September 2019, as part of his development, Shihab was sent on a four-month loan to Tamworth, a club competing in the Southern Football League. Tamworth manager Gary Smith praised the young player as a "good technician" who was "good with the ball," noting that he would be a great addition to the squad. Shihab debuted for Tamworth on September 10 in a 3–0 Southern Football League Cup victory over Barwell, though he made only one further appearance before returning to Brighton on January 4, 2020.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Collegiate Soccer in the United States
Following his release from Brighton at the end of the 2019–20 season, Shihab transitioned to the United States. He enrolled at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where he played for the Wake Forest Demon Deacons.
During the 2021 season, Shihab made thirteen appearances, starting in two of those matches. A highlight of his collegiate tenure occurred on October 12, when he provided an assist in a match against the George Washington Revolutionaries.
Returning to England and Moving to Iceland
Upon returning to England, Shihab spent time with Whitehawk in the Isthmian League, making three appearances during the 2021–22 season. After a brief period with Newhaven, he looked toward Scandinavia for his next challenge.
In November 2022, Shihab began training with Grótta, a club in the Icelandic 1. deild karla (the second-highest tier of Icelandic football). He officially signed a two-year contract with the Seltjarnarnes-based club ahead of the 2023 season. After two years with Grótta, he stepped up to the Besta deild karla (the top flight of Icelandic football) by joining HK in August 2024.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]New Horizons in the Philippines
Continuing his global trajectory, Shihab moved to Southeast Asia in 2025. On September 14, 2025, he made his debut for Stallion Laguna, a prominent club in the Philippines Football League.
Key Facts
- Academy Roots: Developed at Brighton & Hove Albion from 2014 to 2020.
- US College Experience: Played for the Wake Forest Demon Deacons in North Carolina.
- Icelandic Tenure: Played for Grótta (1. deild karla) and HK (Besta deild karla).
- Current Chapter: Joined Stallion Laguna in the Philippines Football League in September 2025.
| Period | Club/Team | League/Level | Country |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014–2020 | Brighton & Hove Albion | Academy/U18 | England |
| 2019 | Tamworth (Loan) | Southern Football League | England |
| 2021 | Wake Forest Demon Deacons | Collegiate | USA |
| 2021–2022 | Whitehawk | Isthmian League | England |
| 2023–2024 | Grótta | 1. deild karla | Iceland |
| 2024 | HK | Besta deild karla | Iceland |
| 2025 | Stallion Laguna | Philippines Football League | Philippines |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Shihab start his football training?
Shihab began his professional development at the Brighton & Hove Albion academy in August 2014.
Which US university did Shihab attend?
He attended Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, playing for the Wake Forest Demon Deacons.
What leagues has Shihab played in within Iceland?
He played in the 1. deild karla with Grótta and the Besta deild karla with HK.
When did Shihab join the Philippines Football League?
Shihab made his debut for Stallion Laguna in the Philippines Football League on September 14, 2025.
How was Shihab described by his manager at Tamworth?
Manager Gary Smith described him as a "good technician" who was "good with the ball" and a "great addition" to the squad.