The 2024/25 season marks a pivotal chapter for Al-Riyadh as the club continues its ambitious journey to establish itself as a dominant force in both domestic and international competitions. With a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, the squad has been meticulously assembled to balance experience, skill, and youthful exuberance. This season, the management has invested heavily in the transfer market, securing top-tier players from across the globe to bolster every position on the field. Below, we delve into the comprehensive roster, breaking it down into goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, with detailed profiles of each player.
Goalkeepers
Ahmed Al-Mansoori
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Former Clubs: ” href=”/al-hilal-squad-2024-25-a-comprehensive-overview” data-link-type=”Int”>Al-Hilal, Al-Faisaly
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (promoted from youth academy)
Ahmed Al-Mansoori is a homegrown talent who has risen through the ranks of ” href=”https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al-Riyadh_SC” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Al-Riyadh’s youth system. Known for his lightning-fast reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Al-Mansoori has become a reliable last line of defense. His ability to read the game and make crucial saves in high-pressure situations has earned him a spot as the first-choice goalkeeper. Despite his young age, he has already represented Saudi Arabia at the U-23 level and is tipped to be a future star for the national team.
Ivan Provedel
Nationality: Italian
Former Clubs: ” href=”https://www.sslazio.it” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Lazio, ” href=”https://empolifc.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Empoli, ” href=”https://www.juventus.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Juventus (youth)
Transfer Fee: €8 million
A seasoned shot-stopper with ” href=”https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serie_A” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Serie A experience, Ivan Provedel brings a wealth of knowledge and composure to ” href=”/al-riyadh-squad-2024-25″ data-link-type=”Int”>Al-Riyadh. His exceptional distribution and ability to organize the defense make him a valuable asset. Provedel’s transfer from ” href=”/ss-lazio-squad-2024-25″ data-link-type=”Int”>Lazio was a statement of intent from ” href=”https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al-Riyadh_SC” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Al-Riyadh, signaling their ambition to compete at the highest level. His performances in Italy, particularly his penalty-saving prowess, have made him a fan favorite already.
Fahad Al-Rashidi
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Former Clubs: ” href=”https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al_Shabab_FC_(Riyadh)” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Al-Shabab, Al-Qadsiah
Transfer Fee: €1.5 million
Fahad Al-Rashidi serves as a dependable backup option for ” href=”/al-riyadh-squad-2024-25″ data-link-type=”Int”>Al-Riyadh. With over a decade of experience in the ” href=”https://www.spl.com.sa/en” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Saudi Pro League, his leadership and mentorship are invaluable to the younger goalkeepers in the squad. Al-Rashidi’s shot-stopping ability and calm demeanor under pressure make him a reliable choice when called upon.
Defenders
Yasser Al-Shahrani
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Former Clubs: ” href=”/al-hilal-squad-2024-25-a-comprehensive-overview” data-link-type=”Int”>Al-Hilal, Al-Qadsiah
Transfer Fee: Free transfer
Yasser Al-Shahrani is a versatile left-back known for his tireless work rate and pinpoint crossing ability. A veteran of the Saudi national team, Al-Shahrani brings experience and consistency to the backline. His defensive acumen and ability to contribute to the attack make him a key player for Al-Riyadh.
Kalidou Koulibaly
Nationality: Senegalese
Former Clubs: ” href=”/chelsea-fc-squad-2024-25″ data-link-type=”Int”>Chelsea, ” href=”https://sscnapoli.it” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Napoli, Genk
Transfer Fee: €15 million
A towering presence in defense, Kalidou Koulibaly is one of the most respected center-backs in world football. His physicality, aerial dominance, and ability to read the game have made him a cornerstone of Al-Riyadh’s defense. Koulibaly’s leadership and experience from top European leagues bring a winning mentality to the squad.
Saud Abdulhamid
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Former Clubs: ” href=”/al-ittihad-squad-2024-25″ data-link-type=”Int”>Al-Ittihad, Al-Fateh
Transfer Fee: €3 million
Saud Abdulhamid is a dynamic right-back known for his speed and defensive tenacity. His ability to overlap and deliver dangerous crosses adds an extra dimension to Al-Riyadh’s attack. Abdulhamid’s performances have earned him a call-up to the Saudi national team, where he continues to impress.
Romain Saïss
Nationality: Moroccan
Former Clubs: ” href=”https://www.wolves.co.uk” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Wolverhampton Wanderers, Angers SCO
Transfer Fee: €5 million
Romain Saïss is a versatile defender capable of playing both center-back and defensive midfield. His tactical intelligence and ability to play out from the back make him a perfect fit for Al-Riyadh’s style of play. Saïss’s experience in the ” href=”https://www.premierleague.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Premier League and international tournaments adds depth and quality to the squad.
Ali Al-Bulaihi
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Former Clubs: ” href=”/al-hilal-squad-2024-25-a-comprehensive-overview” data-link-type=”Int”>Al-Hilal, Al-Fateh
Transfer Fee: Free transfer
Ali Al-Bulaihi is a no-nonsense defender known for his physicality and aerial prowess. His ability to shut down opposition attackers and his leadership on the pitch make him a vital component of Al-Riyadh’s defense. Al-Bulaihi’s experience in the ” href=”https://www.spl.com.sa/en” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Saudi Pro League and national team adds stability to the backline.
Midfielders
Ruben Neves
Nationality: Portuguese
Former Clubs: ” href=”/wolverhampton-wanderers-fc-squad-2024-25″ data-link-type=”Int”>Wolverhampton Wanderers, FC Porto
Transfer Fee: €20 million
Ruben Neves is a midfield maestro known for his vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game. His arrival from ” href=”https://www.wolves.co.uk” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Wolverhampton Wanderers was a marquee signing for Al-Riyadh, showcasing their ambition to compete with the best. Neves’s set-piece expertise and leadership qualities make him a key figure in the squad.
Salman Al-Faraj
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Former Clubs: Al-Hilal, Al-Qadsiah
Transfer Fee: Free transfer
Salman Al-Faraj is a midfield general with a wealth of experience in both domestic and international football. His ability to control the game and deliver crucial passes makes him an indispensable part of Al-Riyadh’s midfield. Al-Faraj’s leadership and experience are invaluable to the team.
Gabri Veiga
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: ” href=”https://rccelta.es/en” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Celta Vigo, ” href=”/manchester-city-fc-squad-2024-25″ data-link-type=”Int”>Manchester City (youth)
Transfer Fee: €25 million
Gabri Veiga is a young and dynamic midfielder known for his dribbling skills, creativity, and eye for goal. His transfer from ” href=”/celta-vigo-squad-2024-25″ data-link-type=”Int”>Celta Vigo was one of the most talked-about moves of the summer, highlighting Al-Riyadh’s commitment to nurturing young talent. Veiga’s energy and technical ability make him a fan favorite.
Abdullah Otayf
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Former Clubs: Al-Hilal, Al-Shabab
Transfer Fee: Free transfer
Abdullah Otayf is a defensive midfielder known for his ability to break up play and shield the defense. His tactical awareness and composure on the ball make him a reliable presence in the middle of the park. Otayf’s experience in the ” href=”https://www.spl.com.sa/en” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Saudi Pro League and national team adds depth to the squad.
Ivan Rakitić
Nationality: Croatian
Former Clubs: ” href=”https://sevillafc.es” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Sevilla, ” href=”/fc-barcelona-squad-2024-25″ data-link-type=”Int”>Barcelona, Schalke 04
Transfer Fee: €10 million
Ivan Rakitić is a seasoned midfielder with a wealth of experience at the highest level. His passing accuracy, vision, and ability to score from distance make him a valuable asset for Al-Riyadh. Rakitić’s leadership and experience in major tournaments bring a winning mentality to the team.
Forwards
Cristiano Ronaldo
Nationality: Portuguese
Former Clubs: ” href=”https://www.manutd.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Manchester United, ” href=”/real-madrid-cf-squad-2024-25″ data-link-type=”Int”>Real Madrid, Juventus
Transfer Fee: Free transfer
Cristiano Ronaldo needs no introduction. The Portuguese superstar continues to defy age with his incredible goal-scoring ability and unmatched work ethic. Ronaldo’s arrival at Al-Riyadh has elevated the club’s global profile, and his leadership on and off the pitch is invaluable.
Sadio Mané
Nationality: Senegalese
Former Clubs: Bayern Munich, ” href=”/liverpool-fc-squad-2024-25″ data-link-type=”Int”>Liverpool, Southampton
Transfer Fee: €30 million
Sadio Mané is a world-class forward known for his pace, dribbling, and clinical finishing. His transfer from Bayern Munich was a statement signing for Al-Riyadh, showcasing their ambition to compete with the best. Mané’s experience in the ” href=”https://www.premierleague.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Premier League and ” href=”https://www.bundesliga.com/en/bundesliga” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Bundesliga makes him a key player for the team.
Firas Al-Buraikan
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Former Clubs: ” href=”https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al_Fateh_SC” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Al-Fateh, Al-Nassr
Transfer Fee: €5 million
Firas Al-Buraikan is one of the most promising young forwards in Saudi Arabia. His speed, agility, and goal-scoring instincts make him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Al-Buraikan’s performances have earned him a call-up to the national team, where he continues to shine.
Aleksandar Mitrović
Nationality: Serbian
Former Clubs: ” href=”https://www.fulhamfc.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Fulham, ” href=”/newcastle-united-fc” data-link-type=”Int”>Newcastle United, Anderlecht
Transfer Fee: €18 million
Aleksandar Mitrović is a prolific striker known for his physicality and aerial ability. His goal-scoring record in the ” href=”https://www.premierleague.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-link-type=”Ext”>Premier League and Championship makes him a valuable addition to Al-Riyadh’s attack. Mitrović’s ability to hold up play and bring others into the game adds a new dimension to the team’s offensive options.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 ” href=”/al-riyadh-squad-2024-25″ data-link-type=”Int”>Al-Riyadh Squad is a perfect blend of youth and experience, with world-class talent in every position. The club’s ambitious transfer strategy has paid off, assembling a team capable of challenging for domestic and international honors. With a mix of homegrown stars and international icons, Al-Riyadh is poised to make a significant impact this season. Fans can look forward to an exciting campaign filled with thrilling performances and memorable moments.
