Al-Ettifaq Forwards 2024/25
Al-Ettifaq, one of Saudi Arabia’s most storied football clubs, has been making waves in recent years with its ambitious signings and tactical evolution. As the 2024/25 season approaches, the club’s forward line is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in the region. With a mix of experienced veterans, rising stars, and strategic acquisitions, Al-Ettifaq’s attacking options promise to deliver thrilling performances. This post delves into the current forwards at the club, providing an in-depth analysis of each player’s background, skills, and potential impact on the upcoming season.
1. Robin Quaison
Nationality: Swedish
Transfer Fee: €5 million (from Mainz 05, 2023)
Former Clubs: AIK, Palermo, Mainz 05
Robin Quaison, the Swedish international, has been a cornerstone of Al-Ettifaq’s attack since his arrival in 2023. 
Known for his versatility, Quaison can operate as a central striker, second striker, or even in wider roles. His technical ability, combined with a keen eye for goal, makes him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Quaison’s journey began at AIK in Sweden, where his performances earned him a move to Palermo in Italy. Later, he established himself in the Bundesliga with Mainz 05, showcasing his ability to adapt to different leagues and styles of play. At Al-Ettifaq, Quaison has become a fan favorite, blending creativity with clinical finishing. His experience in European football brings a level of sophistication to the team’s attacking play, and his leadership on the pitch is invaluable.
2. Karl Toko Ekambi
Nationality: Cameroonian
Transfer Fee: €6.5 million (from Lyon, 2023)
Former Clubs: Villarreal, Lyon, Angers SCO
Karl Toko Ekambi, the Cameroonian forward, joined Al-Ettifaq in 2023 after a successful stint in Europe, most notably with Lyon in Ligue 1. Ekambi is a dynamic attacker, capable of playing as a winger or a central striker. His pace, dribbling skills, and ability to score from tight angles make him a nightmare for defenders. Ekambi’s career began in France with Angers SCO, where his performances caught the attention of Villarreal. In Spain, he further honed his skills before returning to France with Lyon. At Al-Ettifaq, Ekambi has brought a new dimension to the attack, using his speed and agility to stretch defenses and create opportunities for his teammates. His international experience with Cameroon adds a layer of grit and determination to his game, making him a key player for the club.
3. Moussa Dembélé
Nationality: French
Transfer Fee: Free Transfer (from Lyon, 2023)
Former Clubs: Fulham, Celtic, Lyon
Moussa Dembélé, the French striker, arrived at Al-Ettifaq on a free transfer in 2023, bringing with him a wealth of experience from top European leagues. Dembélé is a classic number nine, known for his physical presence, aerial ability, and clinical finishing. His career began at Fulham in England, where he quickly made a name for himself as a prolific goal scorer. A move to Celtic in Scotland saw him dominate the Scottish Premiership, earning a reputation as one of the most feared strikers in the league. Later, at Lyon, Dembélé continued to impress, scoring crucial goals in both domestic and European competitions. At Al-Ettifaq, Dembélé’s ability to hold up play and bring others into the game has been instrumental. His knack for being in the right place at the right time ensures he remains a constant goal threat.
4. Vitinho
Nationality: Brazilian
Transfer Fee: €4 million (from Cercle Brugge, 2023)
Former Clubs: CSKA Moscow, Cercle Brugge
Vitinho, the Brazilian forward, joined Al-Ettifaq in 2023 after a successful spell in Belgium with Cercle Brugge. Known for his flair, creativity, and technical skills, Vitinho is a versatile attacker who can play across the front line. His ability to dribble past defenders and deliver precise passes makes him a valuable asset in the final third. Vitinho’s career began in Brazil before he moved to Europe with CSKA Moscow, where he gained experience in the UEFA Champions League. At Cercle Brugge, he became a standout performer, attracting interest from several clubs. At Al-Ettifaq, Vitinho has added a touch of Brazilian magic to the attack, often leaving fans in awe with his skillful play. His adaptability and vision make him a key component of the team’s offensive strategy.
5. Ahmed Al-Ghamdi
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Transfer Fee: Academy Graduate
Former Clubs: None
Ahmed Al-Ghamdi is one of the brightest talents to emerge from Al-Ettifaq’s youth academy. The young Saudi forward has quickly risen through the ranks, earning a place in the first team with his impressive performances. Al-Ghamdi is known for his pace, work rate, and ability to score from distance. Despite his young age, he displays a maturity beyond his years, often making intelligent runs and decisions on the pitch. As a homegrown player, Al-Ghamdi represents the future of Al-Ettifaq and Saudi football. His development has been closely monitored by the coaching staff, and he is expected to play a more significant role in the 2024/25 season. Al-Ghamdi’s dedication and passion for the club make him a fan favorite, and his potential is limitless.
6. Firas Al-Buraikan
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (from Al-Fateh, 2022)
Former Clubs: Al-Fateh
Firas Al-Buraikan, another Saudi Arabian forward, joined Al-Ettifaq in 2022 from Al-Fateh. Since his arrival, Al-Buraikan has established himself as a reliable goal scorer and a hardworking team player. His ability to press defenders and create chances through sheer determination sets him apart. Al-Buraikan’s journey began at Al-Fateh, where he quickly became one of the most promising young players in the Saudi Pro League. At Al-Ettifaq, he has continued to develop, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. Al-Buraikan’s commitment to the team’s cause and his willingness to track back and defend make him a well-rounded forward. As a local talent, he embodies the spirit of the club and is a symbol of its commitment to nurturing homegrown players.
7. Mohammed Al-Kuwaykibi
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Transfer Fee: €1.8 million (from Al-Taawoun, 2021)
Former Clubs: Al-Taawoun
Mohammed Al-Kuwaykibi, a versatile Saudi forward, has been with Al-Ettifaq since 2021. Known for his speed and ability to play on either wing, Al-Kuwaykibi adds width and depth to the team’s attack. His career began at Al-Taawoun, where he gained valuable experience in the Saudi Pro League. At Al-Ettifaq, he has become a key player, using his pace to exploit spaces and deliver dangerous crosses into the box. Al-Kuwaykibi’s work ethic and team-first mentality make him a valuable asset, especially in high-intensity matches. His ability to adapt to different tactical setups ensures he remains a consistent performer for the club.
8. Youssoufou Niakaté
Nationality: French
Transfer Fee: €3 million (from Clermont Foot, 2023)
Former Clubs: Clermont Foot
Youssoufou Niakaté, the French forward, joined Al-Ettifaq in 2023 from Clermont Foot. Niakaté is a powerful and athletic striker, known for his ability to hold off defenders and create scoring opportunities. His physicality and aerial prowess make him a formidable presence in the box. Niakaté’s career in France saw him develop into a reliable goal scorer, capable of performing in high-pressure situations. At Al-Ettifaq, he has added a new dimension to the attack, using his strength and technical skills to trouble defenses. Niakaté’s adaptability and willingness to learn have endeared him to the coaching staff, and he is expected to play a crucial role in the upcoming season.
Conclusion
Al-Ettifaq’s forward line for the 2024/25 season is a blend of experience, youth, and international talent. With players like Robin Quaison, Karl Toko Ekambi, and Moussa Dembélé leading the charge, the team boasts a wealth of attacking options. The inclusion of homegrown talents like Ahmed Al-Ghamdi and Firas Al-Buraikan highlights the club’s commitment to developing local players. As the new season approaches, Al-Ettifaq’s forwards are poised to deliver thrilling performances, combining skill, determination, and teamwork to achieve success on the pitch. The future looks bright for Al-Ettifaq, and fans can look forward to an exciting campaign filled with goals and memorable moments.