Damac Squad 2024/25: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2024/25 season marks an exciting chapter for Damac Football Club as they aim to solidify their position in the Saudi Pro League and make a significant impact on both domestic and continental fronts. With a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talents, the squad has been meticulously assembled to compete at the highest level. This post delves into the intricacies of the Damac squad, breaking down the players by position and providing an in-depth analysis of each individual. From goalkeepers to forwards, every player’s journey, achievements, and potential contributions are explored in detail.
Goalkeepers
1. Moustapha Zeghba (Algeria)
Moustapha Zeghba, the Algerian shot-stopper, has been a cornerstone of Damac’s defensive line since his arrival. Born in Relizane, Algeria, Zeghba began his career with USM Bel-Abbès before moving to Paradou AC, where his performances caught the attention of European scouts. He joined Damac in 2020 for a modest transfer fee of €500,000, and his consistent performances have made him one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the league. Standing at 1.88 meters, Zeghba boasts exceptional reflexes and commanding aerial presence. In the 2023/24 season, he kept 12 clean sheets and made over 70 saves, earning him the nickname “The Wall of Damac.” His leadership and experience will be vital for the team’s aspirations in the upcoming season.
2. Ahmed Al-Kassar (Saudi Arabia)
Ahmed Al-Kassar, a product of Damac’s youth academy, serves as the team’s second-choice goalkeeper. The 25-year-old Saudi national has steadily risen through the ranks, showcasing his potential in domestic cup competitions. Al-Kassar’s agility and quick decision-making have earned him praise, and he is seen as a future star for both Damac and the Saudi national team. Although he has yet to make a significant impact in the league, his development has been closely monitored by the coaching staff. With a transfer value estimated at €300,000, Al-Kassar represents the club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
3. Martin Campaña (Uruguay)
A new addition to the squad, Martin Campaña joins Damac from Argentine club Racing Club for a transfer fee of €1.2 million. The 35-year-old Uruguayan brings a wealth of experience, having represented his country at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and won multiple titles in South America. Known for his composure under pressure and exceptional penalty-saving abilities, Campaña is expected to provide healthy competition for Zeghba. His leadership and mentorship will also benefit the younger goalkeepers in the squad.
Defenders
1. Domagoj Antolić (Croatia)
Domagoj Antolić, the Croatian center-back, has been a rock in Damac’s defense since his arrival in 2022. Signed from Dinamo Zagreb for €2.5 million, Antolić is renowned for his tactical intelligence and ability to read the game. Standing at 1.92 meters, he dominates aerial duels and is equally adept at playing out from the back. In the 2023/24 season, he recorded an impressive 85% tackle success rate and contributed three goals from set-pieces. His partnership with fellow defenders has been instrumental in Damac’s defensive solidity.
2. Saeed Al-Rubaie (Saudi Arabia)
Saeed Al-Rubaie, a versatile full-back, has been a consistent performer for Damac over the past few seasons. The 28-year-old Saudi international began his career at Al-Taawoun before joining Damac in 2021 for a fee of €1 million. Al-Rubaie’s stamina and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively make him a valuable asset. Last season, he provided five assists and completed over 60 successful crosses, highlighting his attacking prowess. His experience and work ethic continue to inspire his teammates.
3. Abdullah Al-Ammar (Saudi Arabia)
Abdullah Al-Ammar, another homegrown talent, has emerged as one of the most promising young defenders in the league. The 22-year-old center-back joined Damac’s first team in 2022 after impressing in the youth setup. Known for his composure on the ball and ability to intercept opposition attacks, Al-Ammar has drawn comparisons to legendary Saudi defender Redha Tukar. With a market value of €800,000, he is seen as a future cornerstone of both Damac and the national team.
4. Farouk Chafaï (Algeria)
Farouk Chafaï, the Algerian left-back, joined Damac in 2023 from ES Sétif for a transfer fee of €1.5 million. The 29-year-old is known for his pace, defensive discipline, and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses. Last season, he made over 50 tackles and provided four assists, showcasing his all-around capabilities. Chafaï’s experience in African and Arab competitions adds depth to Damac’s defensive options.
5. Hassan Al-Tambakti (Saudi Arabia)
Hassan Al-Tambakti, a rising star in Saudi football, joined Damac on loan from Al-Shabab for the 2024/25 season. The 24-year-old center-back is known for his physicality and ability to dominate one-on-one duels. With a market value of €1.2 million, Al-Tambakti is expected to play a key role in Damac’s quest for silverware. His performances last season earned him a call-up to the Saudi national team, further cementing his reputation as one of the league’s top defenders.
Midfielders
1. Nicolae Stanciu (Romania)
Nicolae Stanciu, the Romanian playmaker, joined Damac in 2023 from Slavia Prague for a fee of €3 million. The 31-year-old is known for his vision, passing accuracy, and ability to score from long range. Last season, he contributed eight goals and ten assists, making him one of the most influential players in the league. Stanciu’s experience in European competitions, including the UEFA Champions League, adds a layer of sophistication to Damac’s midfield.
2. Abdulaziz Al-Shahrani (Saudi Arabia)
Abdulaziz Al-Shahrani, a dynamic box-to-box midfielder, has been a mainstay in Damac’s lineup since his arrival from Al-Hilal in 2021. The 27-year-old Saudi international is known for his energy, tackling ability, and knack for scoring crucial goals. Last season, he netted six goals and provided seven assists, earning him a spot in the league’s Team of the Season. His leadership and work rate make him a fan favorite.
3. Anderson Talisca (Brazil)
Anderson Talisca, the Brazilian attacking midfielder, joined Damac in 2024 from Chinese club Guangzhou Evergrande for a record-breaking fee of €8 million. The 30-year-old is renowned for his technical skills, free-kick expertise, and goal-scoring ability. With over 100 career goals, Talisca brings a wealth of experience and creativity to Damac’s midfield. His arrival is seen as a statement of intent from the club as they aim to challenge for the league title.
4. Nawaf Al-Abid (Saudi Arabia)
Nawaf Al-Abid, a versatile midfielder, returned to Damac in 2023 after a successful stint with Al-Hilal. The 34-year-old Saudi international is known for his dribbling skills and ability to unlock defenses. Despite his age, Al-Abid continues to perform at a high level, contributing five goals and six assists last season. His experience and leadership are invaluable to the squad.
5. Mohammed Fouzair (Morocco)
Mohammed Fouzair, the Moroccan defensive midfielder, joined Damac in 2022 from Wydad Casablanca for a fee of €2 million. The 26-year-old is known for his tenacity, ball-winning abilities, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game. Last season, he made over 100 tackles and completed 90% of his passes, earning him recognition as one of the league’s top defensive midfielders.
Forwards
1. Abderrazak Hamdallah (Morocco)
Abderrazak Hamdallah, the Moroccan striker, is Damac’s talisman and leading goal-scorer. Signed from Al-Nassr in 2023 for a fee of €5 million, the 33-year-old has been in sensational form, netting 25 goals last season. Known for his clinical finishing and ability to score from any angle, Hamdallah is a constant threat to opposition defenses. His experience and goal-scoring prowess make him indispensable to Damac’s attack.
2. Firas Al-Buraikan (Saudi Arabia)
Firas Al-Buraikan, one of Saudi Arabia’s most promising young forwards, joined Damac in 2024 from Al-Fateh for a fee of €4 million. The 23-year-old is known for his pace, dribbling skills, and ability to score in crucial moments. Last season, he scored 15 goals and provided eight assists, earning him a call-up to the national team. His potential and work ethic make him a key player for Damac’s future.
3. Cristian Guanca (Argentina)
Cristian Guanca, the Argentine winger, joined Damac in 2023 from Al-Fateh for a fee of €3.5 million. The 31-year-old is known for his flair, creativity, and ability to deliver accurate crosses. Last season, he contributed ten goals and twelve assists, making him one of the league’s most productive wingers. His experience and technical skills add a new dimension to Damac’s attack.
4. Saleh Al-Amri (Saudi Arabia)
Saleh Al-Amri, a product of Damac’s youth academy, has emerged as a reliable option in the forward line. The 21-year-old is known for his work rate, versatility, and ability to play across the front line. Last season, he scored seven goals and provided five assists, showcasing his potential. With a market value of €1.5 million, Al-Amri is seen as a future star for both Damac and the national team.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Damac squad is a perfect blend of experience, youth, and talent. With a strong defensive unit, a creative midfield, and a prolific attack, the team is well-equipped to compete for honors in the Saudi Pro League and beyond. The addition of high-profile signings like Anderson Talisca and Martin Campaña, coupled with the development of homegrown talents, reflects the club’s ambition and vision for the future. As the season unfolds, fans can look forward to an exciting brand of football and a team that is determined to make history.