Al-Kholood Squad 2024/25
The 2024/25 season marks an exciting chapter for Al-Kholood, a club steadily rising through the ranks of competitive football. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talents, the squad has been meticulously assembled to challenge for domestic and international glory. This season, the management has invested heavily in strategic signings, ensuring depth and quality across all positions. From a rock-solid defense to a dynamic attack, Al-Kholood’s roster is brimming with potential. Below, we delve into the squad, breaking it down into goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, with detailed profiles of each player.
Goalkeepers
- Ahmed Al-Mansoori
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Nassr, Al-Faisaly
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (Academy Graduate)
Ahmed Al-Mansoori is a homegrown talent who has risen through the ranks of Al-Kholood’s youth system. Known for his lightning-fast reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Al-Mansoori has established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper. His ability to read the game and make crucial saves in high-pressure situations has earned him accolades. Standing at 6’3”, he dominates aerial duels and is a reliable shot-stopper. With over 100 appearances for the club, his experience and leadership are invaluable.
- Igor Akinfeev
- Nationality: Russian
- Former Clubs: CSKA Moscow
- Transfer Fee: €2.5 million
A legendary figure in Russian football, Igor Akinfeev joined Al-Kholood to bring his wealth of experience to the squad. At 38, he remains a formidable presence between the sticks, boasting over 500 career appearances for CSKA Moscow. Akinfeev’s leadership and mentorship are crucial for the younger players. His exceptional positioning and ability to organize the defense make him a vital asset, especially in tight matches.
- Yousef Al-Rashidi
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Taawoun, Al-Qadsiah
- Transfer Fee: €500,000
Yousef Al-Rashidi serves as a reliable backup option for Al-Kholood. Known for his agility and quick decision-making, Al-Rashidi has proven his worth in domestic competitions. His ability to distribute the ball accurately and initiate counterattacks adds an extra dimension to the team’s playstyle.
Defenders
- Ali Al-Bulaihi
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Hilal, Al-Fateh
- Transfer Fee: €3 million
Ali Al-Bulaihi is a towering center-back known for his physicality and aerial prowess. Standing at 6’4”, he is a nightmare for opposing attackers during set-pieces. Al-Bulaihi’s ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has made him a mainstay in Al-Kholood’s defense. His experience with Al-Hilal, where he won multiple league titles, brings a winning mentality to the squad.
- Romain Saïss
- Nationality: Moroccan
- Former Clubs: Wolverhampton Wanderers, Besiktas
- Transfer Fee: €4 million
Romain Saïss is a versatile defender capable of playing both center-back and defensive midfield. The Moroccan international brings a wealth of experience from his time in the English Premier League and Turkish Süper Lig. Known for his composure on the ball and ability to play out from the back, Saïss is a key figure in Al-Kholood’s build-up play. His leadership qualities and tactical intelligence make him a vital cog in the team’s defensive setup.
- Sultan Al-Ghanam
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Nassr, Al-Fateh
- Transfer Fee: €2 million
Sultan Al-Ghanam is a dynamic right-back known for his blistering pace and overlapping runs. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a valuable asset. Al-Ghanam’s crossing accuracy and defensive discipline have earned him a regular spot in the starting lineup.
- Abdulrahman Al-Obaid
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Shabab, Al-Raed
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million
Abdulrahman Al-Obaid is a versatile defender who can operate as a left-back or center-back. His tactical awareness and ability to adapt to different roles make him a reliable option for the manager. Al-Obaid’s tenacity and work rate ensure he is always a tough opponent for any winger.
- Ahmed Hegazi
- Nationality: Egyptian
- Former Clubs: West Bromwich Albion, Al-Ittihad
- Transfer Fee: €3.5 million
Ahmed Hegazi is a seasoned center-back with extensive experience in European and Middle Eastern football. Known for his physicality and ability to dominate in one-on-one situations, Hegazi is a rock at the heart of Al-Kholood’s defense. His leadership and organizational skills are crucial for maintaining defensive solidity.
Midfielders
- Salman Al-Faraj
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Hilal
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer
Salman Al-Faraj is a midfield maestro known for his vision and passing range. The Saudi Arabian international has been a consistent performer for both club and country. His ability to control the tempo of the game and deliver pinpoint passes makes him a key player in Al-Kholood’s midfield.
- Gustavo Cuéllar
- Nationality: Colombian
- Former Clubs: Flamengo, Al-Hilal
- Transfer Fee: €5 million
Gustavo Cuéllar is a defensive midfielder renowned for his tackling and ball-winning abilities. The Colombian’s work rate and ability to break up opposition play provide a solid foundation for the team. Cuéllar’s experience in top leagues across South America and Asia adds depth to Al-Kholood’s midfield.
- Hattan Bahebri
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Shabab, Al-Ettifaq
- Transfer Fee: €2.5 million
Hattan Bahebri is a dynamic winger known for his dribbling skills and ability to create chances. His pace and flair make him a constant threat on the flanks. Bahebri’s versatility allows him to play on either wing, providing the manager with tactical flexibility.
- Nawaf Al-Abed
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Hilal, Al-Wehda
- Transfer Fee: €1.8 million
Nawaf Al-Abed is an attacking midfielder with a knack for scoring spectacular goals. His creativity and ability to unlock defenses with incisive passes make him a fan favorite. Al-Abed’s experience in high-pressure matches is invaluable for the team.
- Ivan Rakitić
- Nationality: Croatian
- Former Clubs: Barcelona, Sevilla
- Transfer Fee: €6 million
Ivan Rakitić is a world-class midfielder who brings a wealth of experience to Al-Kholood. The Croatian international is known for his passing accuracy, set-piece expertise, and ability to dictate play. Rakitić’s leadership and technical skills elevate the team’s overall performance.
Forwards
- Bafétimbi Gomis
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: Lyon, Swansea City, Al-Hilal
- Transfer Fee: €4 million
Bafétimbi Gomis is a prolific striker known for his physicality and clinical finishing. The Frenchman’s experience in top European leagues and the Saudi Pro League makes him a reliable goal-scorer. Gomis’s ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the game adds another dimension to the attack.
- Abdulfattah Adam
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Ittihad, Al-Faisaly
- Transfer Fee: €1.2 million
Abdulfattah Adam is a young forward with immense potential. His pace and ability to exploit defensive gaps make him a constant threat. Adam’s work ethic and determination have earned him a regular spot in the starting lineup.
- Cristian Guanca
- Nationality: Argentine
- Former Clubs: Red Bull Salzburg, Al-Shabab
- Transfer Fee: €3.8 million
Cristian Guanca is a versatile forward capable of playing as a winger or second striker. The Argentine’s technical skills and ability to score from distance make him a valuable asset. Guanca’s creativity and flair add excitement to Al-Kholood’s attacking play.
- Mohammed Al-Saiari
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Ahli, Al-Raed
- Transfer Fee: €1 million
Mohammed Al-Saiari is a hardworking forward known for his pressing and ability to create chances. His versatility allows him to play across the front line, providing the manager with tactical options.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Al-Kholood squad is a perfect blend of youth and experience, with each player bringing unique qualities to the team. The management’s strategic signings have addressed key areas, ensuring depth and quality across all positions. With a solid defense, a creative midfield, and a potent attack, Al-Kholood is well-equipped to compete at the highest level. As the season unfolds, fans can look forward to thrilling performances and a strong push for silverware. The future looks bright for Al-Kholood, and this squad is ready to make history.