Al-Fateh Squad 2024/25: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2024/25 season marks an exciting chapter for Al-Fateh as the club continues to build on its legacy in Saudi Arabian football. With a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talents, the squad is poised to make a significant impact in both domestic and international competitions. This season, the management has made strategic signings and retained key players to ensure a balanced and competitive team. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the Al-Fateh Squad, categorized by position, and provide an in-depth analysis of each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
1. Vladimir Stojković
- Nationality: Serbian
- Former Clubs: Partizan, Sporting CP, Nottingham Forest, Maccabi Haifa
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Vladimir Stojković, a seasoned goalkeeper with over 15 years of professional experience, brings a wealth of knowledge and composure to Al-Fateh. Known for his exceptional reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Stojković has been a reliable figure between the posts since joining the club. His ability to organize the defense and make crucial saves in high-pressure situations has earned him the trust of both teammates and fans. With over 80 caps for the Serbian national team, his international experience is invaluable to the squad.
2. Hussain Al-Najjar
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Qadsiah, Al-Faisaly
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (2021)
Hussain Al-Najjar is a rising star in Saudi Arabian football. At just 24 years old, he has already shown immense potential as a goalkeeper. Al-Najjar’s agility and quick decision-making make him a formidable shot-stopper. Having come through the ranks of Al-Qadsiah, he joined Al-Fateh in 2021 and has since developed into a dependable backup option. His dedication to improving his game and his ability to perform under pressure suggest a bright future ahead.
3. Mohammed Al-Rubaie
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Ahli, Al-Taawoun
- Transfer Fee: Loan (2023)
Mohammed Al-Rubaie, on loan from Al-Ahli, adds depth to Al-Fateh’s goalkeeping department. Known for his excellent distribution and ability to read the game, Al-Rubaie has been a consistent performer in the Saudi Pro League. His loan move to Al-Fateh provides him with an opportunity to gain more first-team experience and showcase his talents on a bigger stage.
Defenders
1. Mohammed Al-Breik
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Hilal
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Mohammed Al-Breik, a versatile right-back, joined Al-Fateh after a successful stint with Al-Hilal. Known for his pace, defensive solidity, and ability to contribute to the attack, Al-Breik has quickly become a fan favorite. His experience in both domestic and continental competitions makes him a key asset to the team. With over 50 appearances for the Saudi national team, his leadership and work ethic are invaluable.
2. Jason Denayer
- Nationality: Belgian
- Former Clubs: Manchester City, Celtic, Lyon, Shabab Al-Ahli
- Transfer Fee: €3 million (2023)
Belgian center-back Jason Denayer brings a wealth of European experience to Al-Fateh. Having played for top clubs like Manchester City and Lyon, Denayer is known for his composure on the ball, aerial dominance, and ability to read the game. His €3 million transfer from Shabab Al-Ahli in 2023 was seen as a coup for the club, and he has since solidified his place in the starting lineup.
3. Ziyad Al-Sahafi
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Ittihad, Al-Taawoun
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (2022)
Ziyad Al-Sahafi is a dynamic left-back who excels in both defensive and offensive roles. His overlapping runs and precise crosses have been a key feature of Al-Fateh’s attacking play. Al-Sahafi’s versatility allows him to slot into midfield when needed, making him a valuable asset for the team. His consistent performances have earned him recognition as one of the best full-backs in the league.
4. Abdullah Al-Hafith
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Wehda, Al-Shabab
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Abdullah Al-Hafith, a towering center-back, joined Al-Fateh on a free transfer in 2023. Known for his physicality and ability to win aerial duels, Al-Hafith has been a rock at the heart of the defense. His leadership qualities and experience in the Saudi Pro League make him a crucial figure in the squad.
5. Saeed Al-Rubaie
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Ettifaq, Al-Faisaly
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (2021)
Saeed Al-Rubaie is a versatile defender capable of playing both as a center-back and a right-back. His tactical awareness and ability to intercept opposition attacks have been instrumental in Al-Fateh’s defensive success. Al-Rubaie’s commitment and consistency make him a reliable option for the manager.
Midfielders
1. Sofiane Bendebka
- Nationality: Algerian
- Former Clubs: USM Alger, Al-Nasr
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2022)
Sofiane Bendebka, an Algerian international, is the creative engine of Al-Fateh’s midfield. Known for his vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game, Bendebka has been a standout performer since joining the club. His €1.5 million transfer from Al-Nasr in 2022 has proven to be a bargain, as he continues to deliver match-winning performances.
2. Petros Matheus
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Botafogo, Al-Wasl
- Transfer Fee: €2 million (2023)
Brazilian midfielder Petros Matheus brings flair and creativity to Al-Fateh’s midfield. His dribbling skills, close control, and ability to score from distance make him a constant threat to opposition defenses. The €2 million signing from Al-Wasl in 2023 has added a new dimension to the team’s attacking play.
3. Mukhtar Ali
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Chelsea, Vitesse, Al-Nassr
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Mukhtar Ali, a product of Chelsea’s youth academy, is a technically gifted midfielder with an eye for goal. His ability to break up play and initiate attacks has been crucial for Al-Fateh. After a stint in the Netherlands with Vitesse, Ali returned to Saudi Arabia and has since established himself as a key player for the club.
4. Faisal Al-Ghamdi
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Ettifaq, Al-Taawoun
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (2021)
Faisal Al-Ghamdi is a hardworking box-to-box midfielder known for his energy and tenacity. His ability to cover ground and contribute both defensively and offensively makes him an indispensable part of the squad. Al-Ghamdi’s work rate and determination have earned him a regular spot in the starting lineup.
Forwards
1. Cristian Guanca
- Nationality: Argentine
- Former Clubs: Banfield, Legia Warsaw, Al-Shabab
- Transfer Fee: €4 million (2023)
Argentine forward Cristian Guanca is the star of Al-Fateh’s attack. Known for his clinical finishing, dribbling skills, and ability to create chances, Guanca has been a revelation since joining the club for €4 million in 2023. His partnership with the midfield has been instrumental in the team’s success.
2. Firas Al-Buraikan
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Nassr, Al-Faisaly
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (2022)
Firas Al-Buraikan is one of the most promising young forwards in Saudi Arabia. His pace, movement, and finishing ability make him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Al-Buraikan’s development at Al-Fateh has been impressive, and he is widely regarded as a future star for the national team.
3. Mourad Batna
- Nationality: Moroccan
- Former Clubs: Raja Casablanca, Al-Ain, Al-Nasr
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Moroccan forward Mourad Batna brings experience and versatility to Al-Fateh’s attack. Capable of playing as a striker or winger, Batna’s technical skills and creativity have been a valuable addition to the squad. His free transfer in 2023 has proven to be a shrewd piece of business.
4. Salem Al-Najdi
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Hilal, Al-Raed
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (2021)
Salem Al-Najdi is a dynamic winger known for his speed and crossing ability. His ability to stretch defenses and deliver accurate crosses has been a key feature of Al-Fateh’s attacking play. Al-Najdi’s consistency and work ethic make him a vital part of the team.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Al-Fateh Squad is a well-balanced mix of experience and youth, with players capable of competing at the highest level. The strategic signings and retention of key players have strengthened the team’s chances of success in both domestic and international competitions. With a strong core of Saudi Arabian talent complemented by high-quality foreign imports, Al-Fateh is poised to make a significant impact this season. Fans can look forward to an exciting campaign filled with thrilling performances and memorable moments.
