Al-Akhdoud Squad 2024/25: A Comprehensive Breakdown
The 2024/25 season marks a pivotal chapter for Al-Akhdoud as they aim to solidify their position in the Saudi Pro League and make a significant impact in domestic and continental competitions. 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 team, providing an in-depth analysis of each player, their backgrounds, and their potential contributions to the club’s ambitions. The squad is divided into four key sections: Goalkeepers, Defenders, Midfielders, and Forwards, each highlighting the individuals who will shape Al-Akhdoud’s fortunes this season.
Goalkeepers
- Ahmed Al-Kassar
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Faisaly, Al-Taawoun
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Ahmed Al-Kassar is a seasoned shot-stopper with a wealth of experience in the Saudi Pro League. Known for his quick reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Al-Kassar joined Al-Akhdoud in 2023 after a successful stint with Al-Taawoun. His ability to organize the defense and make crucial saves in high-pressure situations has made him a fan favorite. With over 150 league appearances, his leadership and consistency are invaluable assets to the team.
- Igor Silva
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Fluminense, Al-Wehda
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2024)
Igor Silva, a Brazilian import, brings a dynamic and modern goalkeeping style to Al-Akhdoud. Signed from Al-Wehda for €1.5 million, Silva is renowned for his exceptional distribution and ability to play out from the back. His agility and shot-stopping prowess have earned him a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable keepers. Silva’s arrival adds depth and competition to the goalkeeping department, ensuring Al-Akhdoud remains solid between the posts.
- Fahad Al-Rashidi
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Hilal (youth), Al-Qadsiah
- Transfer Fee: Loan (2024)
Fahad Al-Rashidi, a product of Al-Hilal’s esteemed youth academy, joins Al-Akhdoud on loan for the 2024/25 season. Despite his relatively young age, Al-Rashidi has shown immense potential, particularly in one-on-one situations. His loan move provides him with an opportunity to gain first-team experience and further develop his skills under the guidance of the club’s coaching staff.
Defenders
- Saeed Al-Mowalad
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Ahli, Al-Fateh
- Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2023)
Saeed Al-Mowalad is a versatile defender capable of playing both as a right-back and a center-back. His tenacity and tactical intelligence make him a key component of Al-Akhdoud’s backline. Al-Mowalad’s experience in top-flight football, coupled with his ability to read the game, ensures he remains a reliable option in defense. His €500,000 transfer from Al-Fateh in 2023 has proven to be a shrewd investment.
- Bruno Viana
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Braga, Al-Raed
- Transfer Fee: €2 million (2024)
Bruno Viana, a towering center-back, joined Al-Akhdoud in 2024 for a fee of €2 million. Known for his aerial dominance and composure on the ball, Viana has quickly established himself as a mainstay in the defense. His previous stints in Portugal and Saudi Arabia have equipped him with the experience needed to thrive in high-stakes matches. Viana’s leadership qualities and ability to marshal the backline make him an indispensable asset.
- Abdulaziz Al-Shahrani
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Hilal, Al-Fayha
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Abdulaziz Al-Shahrani, a seasoned left-back, joined Al-Akhdoud on a free transfer in 2024. His attacking prowess and defensive reliability make him a dual threat on the flank. Al-Shahrani’s experience at Al-Hilal, one of Saudi Arabia’s most successful clubs, has honed his ability to perform under pressure. His crossing accuracy and overlapping runs add a new dimension to the team’s attacking play.
- Mohammed Al-Dossary
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Ettifaq, Al-Adalah
- Transfer Fee: €300,000 (2023)
Mohammed Al-Dossary is a young and promising center-back who joined Al-Akhdoud in 2023. His physicality and ability to intercept opposition attacks have earned him a regular spot in the starting lineup. Al-Dossary’s development has been rapid, and he is widely regarded as one of the brightest defensive prospects in the league. His €300,000 transfer fee is already looking like a bargain.
- Ahmed Hegazi
- Nationality: Egyptian
- Former Clubs: West Bromwich Albion, Al-Ittihad
- Transfer Fee: Loan (2024)
Ahmed Hegazi, an Egyptian international, joins Al-Akhdoud on loan from Al-Ittihad. With extensive experience in the English Premier League and the Saudi Pro League, Hegazi brings a wealth of knowledge and composure to the defense. His aerial ability and positional awareness make him a formidable presence in both boxes. The loan deal provides Al-Akhdoud with a proven defender capable of making an immediate impact.
Midfielders
- Salman Al-Faraj
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Hilal
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Salman Al-Faraj, a legendary figure in Saudi football, joined Al-Akhdoud in 2024 after a storied career at Al-Hilal. As a central midfielder, Al-Faraj is known for his vision, passing range, and ability to control the tempo of the game. His leadership and experience are invaluable to a relatively young squad. Al-Faraj’s arrival on a free transfer is a coup for the club, as he brings both quality and a winning mentality.
- Gustavo Cuéllar
- Nationality: Colombian
- Former Clubs: Flamengo, Al-Hilal
- Transfer Fee: €3 million (2024)
Gustavo Cuéllar, a Colombian defensive midfielder, signed for Al-Akhdoud in 2024 for €3 million. Renowned for his tackling and ability to break up play, Cuéllar provides a solid shield for the defense. His experience in South America and the Middle East has made him a well-rounded player capable of adapting to different styles of play. Cuéllar’s work rate and tactical discipline make him a key figure in the midfield.
- Hattan Bahebri
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Shabab, Al-Ettifaq
- Transfer Fee: €1.2 million (2023)
Hattan Bahebri is a dynamic winger who joined Al-Akhdoud in 2023. Known for his pace and dribbling skills, Bahebri is a constant threat on the flanks. His ability to deliver precise crosses and cut inside to score goals adds versatility to the team’s attack. Bahebri’s €1.2 million transfer fee has been justified by his consistent performances and ability to create chances.
- Abdullah Otayf
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Hilal
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Abdullah Otayf, a technically gifted midfielder, joined Al-Akhdoud in 2024 after a successful spell at Al-Hilal. His ability to dictate play and retain possession under pressure makes him a vital cog in the midfield. Otayf’s experience in both domestic and international competitions ensures he remains a reliable performer. His free transfer is a testament to the club’s ambition to attract top talent.
- Ayman Yahya
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Nassr
- Transfer Fee: Loan (2024)
Ayman Yahya, a young and exciting winger, joins Al-Akhdoud on loan from Al-Nassr. Known for his flair and creativity, Yahya has the potential to become one of the league’s standout players. His loan move provides him with an opportunity to gain regular playing time and further develop his skills. Yahya’s ability to take on defenders and deliver key passes makes him a valuable addition to the squad.
Forwards
- Abderrazak Hamdallah
- Nationality: Moroccan
- Former Clubs: Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad
- Transfer Fee: €4 million (2024)
Abderrazak Hamdallah, a prolific striker, joined Al-Akhdoud in 2024 for a club-record fee of €4 million. Known for his clinical finishing and ability to score from any angle, Hamdallah has been one of the most consistent goal-scorers in the Saudi Pro League. His experience and leadership in the final third make him a focal point of the team’s attack. Hamdallah’s arrival signals Al-Akhdoud’s intent to compete for silverware.
- Firas Al-Buraikan
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Fateh, Al-Nassr
- Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (2023)
Firas Al-Buraikan is a versatile forward capable of playing as a center-forward or on the wing. His pace, movement, and finishing ability make him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Al-Buraikan’s €2.5 million transfer from Al-Nassr in 2023 has proven to be a wise investment, as he continues to deliver goals and assists for the team.
- Cristian Guanca
- Nationality: Argentine
- Former Clubs: Red Star Belgrade, Al-Shabab
- Transfer Fee: €3.5 million (2024)
Cristian Guanca, an Argentine attacking midfielder, joined Al-Akhdoud in 2024 for €3.5 million. Known for his creativity and ability to score from distance, Guanca adds a new dimension to the team’s attack. His experience in Europe and the Middle East has made him a well-rounded player capable of unlocking defenses with his vision and technical skills.
- Mohammed Al-Saiari
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Raed, Al-Fayha
- Transfer Fee: €1 million (2023)
Mohammed Al-Saiari is a young and promising forward who joined Al-Akhdoud in 2023. His ability to play across the front line and link up with teammates makes him a valuable asset. Al-Saiari’s €1 million transfer fee reflects his potential to develop into a key player for the club. His work rate and determination have already endeared him to the fans.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Al-Akhdoud squad is a blend of experience, youth, and international quality. With a strong core of Saudi Arabian talent complemented by strategic foreign signings, the team is well-equipped to challenge for honors in the Saudi Pro League and beyond. The meticulous recruitment strategy, coupled with the players’ individual qualities, ensures that Al-Akhdoud remains a force to be reckoned with. As the season unfolds, the squad’s cohesion and determination will be pivotal in achieving their objectives and writing a new chapter in the club’s history.