Al-Ittihad Midfielders 2024/25
Al-Ittihad, one of Saudi Arabia’s most storied football clubs, has always been a hub for talent, blending local stars with international imports. As the 2024/25 season unfolds, the club’s midfield stands out as a dynamic and versatile unit, combining creativity, defensive solidity, and tactical intelligence. This post delves into the midfielders currently gracing Al-Ittihad’s roster, providing an in-depth look at their backgrounds, skills, and contributions to the team. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, each player brings a unique flavor to the squad, making Al-Ittihad a formidable force in both domestic and continental competitions.
1. Fabinho
Fabinho, the Brazilian midfield maestro, joined Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023 from Liverpool for a reported fee of €40 million. Known for his tactical awareness and ability to break up opposition play, Fabinho has seamlessly transitioned into the heart of Al-Ittihad’s midfield. His experience in the English Premier League and UEFA Champions League has been invaluable, providing the team with a calming presence in high-pressure situations. Standing at 6’2”, he dominates aerial duels and is a reliable penalty taker. Fabinho’s passing range, combined with his ability to read the game, makes him a pivotal figure in both defensive and attacking transitions. His leadership qualities have also seen him wear the captain’s armband on several occasions, further cementing his importance to the squad.
2. N’Golo Kanté
N’Golo Kanté, the French dynamo, arrived at Al-Ittihad in 2023 on a free transfer after his contract with Chelsea expired. Renowned for his tireless work rate and exceptional ball-winning abilities, Kanté has brought a new dimension to the team’s midfield. Despite being in his early 30s, his energy and stamina remain unmatched, allowing him to cover vast areas of the pitch. Kanté’s humility and team-first mentality have endeared him to fans and teammates alike. His ability to intercept passes and initiate counterattacks has been crucial in Al-Ittihad’s tactical setup. A World Cup winner with France in 2018, Kanté’s experience and winning mentality have been instrumental in guiding the younger players in the squad.
3. Igor Coronado
Igor Coronado, a dual-nationality midfielder representing both Brazil and Italy, has been a creative force for Al-Ittihad since his arrival from Sharjah FC in 2021. Known for his flair, vision, and technical prowess, Coronado is the quintessential playmaker. His ability to unlock defenses with incisive passes and his knack for scoring from distance make him a constant threat. Coronado’s journey through various leagues, including stints in Malta, Turkey, and the UAE, has honed his adaptability and resilience. In the 2024/25 season, he has continued to shine, contributing with goals and assists while maintaining a high pass completion rate. His versatility allows him to operate both centrally and on the wings, providing the manager with tactical flexibility.
4. Romarinho
Romarinho, the Brazilian attacking midfielder, has been a fan favorite at Al-Ittihad since his arrival in 2018. Known for his quick feet, dribbling skills, and eye for goal, Romarinho has consistently delivered standout performances. His ability to drift into space and link up with forwards has been a key component of Al-Ittihad’s attacking play. Romarinho’s journey to Saudi Arabia included spells in Brazil and Qatar, where he showcased his potential as a dynamic and creative player. In the 2024/25 season, he has continued to be a reliable source of goals and assists, often stepping up in crucial moments. His understanding of the league and the club’s playing style makes him an indispensable asset.
5. Tarek Hamed
Tarek Hamed, the Egyptian defensive midfielder, has been a mainstay in Al-Ittihad’s lineup since joining from Zamalek in 2018. Known for his tenacity, tackling, and ability to shield the defense, Hamed is the unsung hero of the team. His positional discipline and ability to break up opposition attacks have been crucial in maintaining the team’s defensive solidity. Hamed’s leadership on the pitch and his commitment to the club’s cause have earned him the respect of fans and teammates. Despite not being the most flashy player, his contributions are vital to the team’s balance and structure. In the 2024/25 season, he has continued to excel, proving that consistency is one of his greatest strengths.
6. Karim El Ahmadi
Karim El Ahmadi, the Moroccan international, joined Al-Ittihad in 2018 after a successful spell with Feyenoord in the Netherlands. A versatile midfielder capable of playing both defensively and in a box-to-box role, El Ahmadi brings experience and composure to the team. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and his precise passing have been key to Al-Ittihad’s midfield dynamics. El Ahmadi’s leadership qualities and his understanding of the game make him a valuable mentor to the younger players. In the 2024/25 season, he has continued to demonstrate his class, contributing with crucial interceptions and intelligent distribution.
7. Hélder Costa
Hélder Costa, the Portuguese-Angolan winger, joined Al-Ittihad on loan from Leeds United in 2023 before making the move permanent for €8 million. Known for his pace, dribbling, and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses, Costa has added a new dimension to the team’s attacking play. His versatility allows him to operate on either flank, providing width and stretching opposition defenses. Costa’s journey through top European leagues, including spells at Wolverhampton Wanderers and Valencia, has equipped him with the experience to thrive in high-pressure environments. In the 2024/25 season, he has been a consistent performer, contributing with goals and assists while showcasing his flair and creativity.
8. Abdulaziz Al-Bishi
Abdulaziz Al-Bishi, a product of Al-Ittihad’s youth academy, is one of the most promising Saudi talents in the squad. Known for his technical skills, vision, and ability to control the midfield, Al-Bishi has quickly risen through the ranks to become a key player. His understanding of the club’s philosophy and his commitment to the team’s success make him a fan favorite. In the 2024/25 season, Al-Bishi has continued to impress, demonstrating his ability to compete at the highest level. His performances have not only earned him a regular spot in the starting lineup but also caught the attention of the national team selectors.
9. Faisal Al-Ghamdi
Faisal Al-Ghamdi, another homegrown talent, has been a revelation in Al-Ittihad’s midfield. Known for his energy, work rate, and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, Al-Ghamdi is a complete midfielder. His ability to drive forward with the ball and his willingness to track back and defend make him a valuable asset. In the 2024/25 season, Al-Ghamdi has continued to grow, showcasing his potential and earning the trust of the coaching staff. His performances have been a testament to the club’s commitment to nurturing local talent and integrating them into the first team.
10. Jota
Jota, the Portuguese winger, joined Al-Ittihad in 2023 from Celtic for a fee of €25 million. Known for his creativity, dribbling, and ability to score from tight angles, Jota has been a key figure in the team’s attacking play. His ability to cut inside from the wings and his knack for delivering decisive passes have made him a constant threat. Jota’s journey through the Scottish Premiership and his performances in European competitions have prepared him for the challenges of playing in Saudi Arabia. In the 2024/25 season, he has continued to dazzle, contributing with goals and assists while showcasing his flair and technical brilliance.
11. Ahmed Hegazi
Although primarily a center-back, Ahmed Hegazi has occasionally been deployed as a defensive midfielder due to his composure on the ball and ability to read the game. The Egyptian international joined Al-Ittihad in 2021 from West Bromwich Albion for a fee of €4 million. Known for his aerial prowess and ability to intercept passes, Hegazi provides a solid option in midfield when needed. His leadership and experience have been crucial in guiding the younger players and maintaining the team’s defensive discipline. In the 2024/25 season, Hegazi has continued to be a reliable presence, whether in defense or midfield.
12. Saleh Al-Amri
Saleh Al-Amri, a versatile midfielder capable of playing in multiple positions, has been a valuable squad player for Al-Ittihad. Known for his work rate, tactical intelligence, and ability to adapt to different roles, Al-Amri provides the team with much-needed depth. His understanding of the game and his willingness to put the team first make him a valuable asset. In the 2024/25 season, Al-Amri has continued to contribute whenever called upon, demonstrating his professionalism and commitment to the club’s success.
Conclusion
Al-Ittihad’s midfield for the 2024/25 season is a blend of experience, youth, and versatility. From the defensive solidity of Fabinho and Tarek Hamed to the creative brilliance of Igor Coronado and Jota, each player brings a unique set of skills to the table. The integration of local talents like Abdulaziz Al-Bishi and Faisal Al-Ghamdi highlights the club’s commitment to developing homegrown players. With a mix of international stars and rising talents, Al-Ittihad’s midfield is well-equipped to compete at the highest level, both domestically and on the continental stage. As the season progresses, the contributions of these midfielders will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the team’s pursuit of glory.