Al-Raed Squad 2024/25
The 2024/25 season marks an exciting chapter for Al-Raed Football Club as they aim to build on their recent successes and establish themselves as a formidable force in Saudi Arabian football. With a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talents, the squad has been meticulously assembled to compete at the highest level. This season, the club has invested strategically in the transfer market, bringing in players from diverse backgrounds to strengthen every department. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the Al-Raed squad for the 2024/25 campaign, examining each player’s profile, career trajectory, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
- Moustapha Zeghba
- Nationality: Algerian
- Former Clubs: JS Kabylie (Algeria), MC Alger (Algeria), Damac FC (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Moustapha Zeghba has been a reliable presence between the posts for Al-Raed since his arrival in 2022. Known for his quick reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Zeghba has consistently delivered standout performances. His ability to read the game and make crucial saves in high-pressure situations has earned him the trust of both the coaching staff and fans. With over 50 appearances for the club, Zeghba’s experience and leadership make him a cornerstone of the squad.
- Abdulquddus Atiah
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Faisaly (Saudi Arabia), Al-Taawoun (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (2023)
Abdulquddus Atiah, a homegrown talent, has proven to be a dependable backup goalkeeper. His agility and shot-stopping abilities have been crucial in cup competitions and during injury spells for the first-choice keeper. Atiah’s dedication to improving his game has seen him rise through the ranks, and he remains a valuable asset for Al-Raed’s long-term plans.
- Ahmed Al-Rehaili
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia), Al-Qadsiah (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Ahmed Al-Rehaili joined Al-Raed in 2024 as a free agent, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his time at Al-Nassr and Al-Qadsiah. Known for his composure under pressure and excellent distribution skills, Al-Rehaili provides depth and competition in the goalkeeping department. His mentorship of younger players has also been invaluable.
Defenders
- Mohammed Al-Dossary
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Hilal (Saudi Arabia), Al-Fateh (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: $1.5 million (2023)
Mohammed Al-Dossary is a versatile defender capable of playing both as a center-back and a right-back. His tactical awareness and physicality make him a key figure in Al-Raed’s backline. Al-Dossary’s ability to intercept passes and initiate counterattacks has been instrumental in the team’s defensive solidity. Since joining from Al-Fateh in 2023, he has become a fan favorite.
- Karim El Berkaoui
- Nationality: Moroccan
- Former Clubs: Wydad Casablanca (Morocco), Al-Faisaly (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: $2 million (2024)
Karim El Berkaoui, a recent signing from Al-Faisaly, is a towering center-back known for his aerial dominance and strong tackling. The Moroccan international brings a wealth of experience from his time in both African and Saudi football. His leadership qualities and ability to organize the defense have already made a significant impact.
- Saeed Al-Rubaie
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Shabab (Saudi Arabia), Al-Ettifaq (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: $1 million (2022)
Saeed Al-Rubaie is a dynamic left-back who excels in both defensive duties and attacking contributions. His pace and crossing ability have made him a constant threat down the flank. Al-Rubaie’s consistency and work ethic have cemented his place as a regular starter for Al-Raed.
- Abdulaziz Al-Jebreen
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia), Al-Raed (youth academy)
- Transfer Fee: Youth product
A product of Al-Raed’s youth academy, Abdulaziz Al-Jebreen has risen through the ranks to become a key player in the squad. His versatility allows him to play as a center-back or defensive midfielder, providing the team with tactical flexibility. Al-Jebreen’s commitment and passion for the club make him a symbol of Al-Raed’s future.
- Fahad Al-Hamad
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Taawoun (Saudi Arabia), Al-Fayha (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: $800,000 (2023)
Fahad Al-Hamad is a robust right-back known for his defensive discipline and ability to support the attack. His experience in the Saudi Pro League has been crucial in helping Al-Raed maintain a balanced defensive line. Al-Hamad’s consistency and professionalism have made him a reliable option for the coaching staff.
Midfielders
- Julio Tavares
- Nationality: Cape Verdean
- Former Clubs: Dijon (France), Al-Fayha (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: $3 million (2024)
Julio Tavares, a seasoned attacking midfielder, joined Al-Raed in 2024 to bolster the team’s creativity in the final third. Known for his vision, dribbling skills, and goal-scoring ability, Tavares has quickly become a fan favorite. His experience in European and Saudi football brings a unique dynamic to the squad.
- Amadou Haidara
- Nationality: Malian
- Former Clubs: RB Leipzig (Germany), Red Bull Salzburg (Austria)
- Transfer Fee: $5 million (2024)
Amadou Haidara is a box-to-box midfielder whose energy and technical ability have added a new dimension to Al-Raed’s midfield. The Malian international, formerly of RB Leipzig, is known for his passing range and ability to break up opposition play. His arrival in 2024 was seen as a major coup for the club.
- Mohammed Fouzair
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Ittihad (Saudi Arabia), Al-Faisaly (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: $1.2 million (2023)
Mohammed Fouzair is a hardworking central midfielder who excels in both defensive and offensive roles. His ability to control the tempo of the game and make intelligent runs has been crucial for Al-Raed. Fouzair’s dedication and consistency have made him a mainstay in the starting lineup.
- Abdulrahman Al-Dossari
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Hilal (Saudi Arabia), Al-Fateh (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: $1.8 million (2024)
Abdulrahman Al-Dossari, a creative playmaker, joined Al-Raed in 2024 to add flair and vision to the midfield. His ability to unlock defenses with precise passes and set-piece expertise has been a valuable asset. Al-Dossari’s experience at top clubs like Al-Hilal brings a winning mentality to the squad.
- Hassan Al-Harbi
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Ahli (Saudi Arabia), Al-Taawoun (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: $900,000 (2023)
Hassan Al-Harbi is a versatile midfielder capable of playing in multiple roles. His work rate and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively make him a valuable squad player. Al-Harbi’s adaptability and team-first attitude have earned him the respect of his teammates.
Forwards
- Karim Yoda
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: Dijon (France), Al-Faisaly (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: $2.5 million (2024)
Karim Yoda, a dynamic forward, joined Al-Raed in 2024 to spearhead the attack. Known for his pace, dribbling, and clinical finishing, Yoda has quickly established himself as a key player. His experience in both European and Saudi football makes him a well-rounded addition to the squad.
- Saleh Al-Jamaan
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Hilal (Saudi Arabia), Al-Raed (youth academy)
- Transfer Fee: Youth product
Saleh Al-Jamaan is a homegrown talent who has emerged as one of the most promising forwards in Saudi football. His ability to score goals and create chances has made him a vital part of Al-Raed’s attack. Al-Jamaan’s dedication to the club and continuous improvement bode well for his future.
- André Bukia
- Nationality: Congolese
- Former Clubs: TP Mazembe (DR Congo), Al-Faisaly (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: $1.5 million (2023)
André Bukia is a powerful striker known for his physicality and goal-scoring prowess. Since joining Al-Raed in 2023, Bukia has been a consistent threat in the opposition box. His ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the game adds another dimension to the attack.
- Abdulaziz Al-Selouli
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia), Al-Fateh (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: $1 million (2024)
Abdulaziz Al-Selouli, a versatile forward, joined Al-Raed in 2024 to provide depth and competition in the attacking department. His ability to play as a winger or center-forward makes him a valuable asset. Al-Selouli’s technical skills and work ethic have quickly endeared him to the fans.
- Mohammed Al-Saiari
- Nationality: Saudi Arabian
- Former Clubs: Al-Ittihad (Saudi Arabia), Al-Batin (Saudi Arabia)
- Transfer Fee: $800,000 (2023)
Mohammed Al-Saiari is a pacey winger who excels in one-on-one situations. His ability to deliver accurate crosses and cut inside to score goals has made him a key player for Al-Raed. Al-Saiari’s energy and determination have been instrumental in the team’s attacking success.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Al-Raed Squad is a well-balanced mix of experienced internationals and talented local players. With strategic investments in key areas, the team is poised to compete at the highest level and challenge for silverware. The blend of defensive solidity, midfield creativity, and attacking firepower makes Al-Raed a formidable opponent in the Saudi Pro League. As the season unfolds, fans can look forward to thrilling performances and a team that embodies passion, determination, and a commitment to excellence.