Al-Wehda Midfielders 2024/25
Al-Wehda, one of Saudi Arabia’s most storied football clubs, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to building a competitive squad capable of challenging for domestic and regional honors. The 2024/25 season is no exception, as the club has assembled a dynamic and versatile midfield unit designed to control games, create opportunities, and provide defensive stability. This post delves into the midfielders currently on Al-Wehda’s roster, offering an in-depth look at their backgrounds, playing styles, and contributions to the team. From seasoned veterans to emerging talents, each player brings a unique set of skills that enriches the squad’s overall quality.
1. Craig Goodwin
Craig Goodwin, an Australian international, has been a standout performer for Al-Wehda since joining the club. Known for his technical prowess and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses, Goodwin has become a vital cog in the team’s attacking machinery. Born in Adelaide, he began his professional career with his hometown club, Adelaide United, before stints in the Netherlands with Sparta Rotterdam and Saudi Arabia with Al-Wehda. His transfer fee of approximately $800,000 in 2022 was seen as a bargain given his consistent performances. Goodwin’s versatility allows him to operate as a winger or an attacking midfielder, making him a valuable asset for the team. His leadership qualities and experience in high-pressure situations further enhance his importance to the squad.
2. Anselmo de Moraes
Anselmo de Moraes, a Brazilian midfielder, brings a blend of creativity and tenacity to Al-Wehda’s midfield. Hailing from Porto Alegre, Anselmo began his career with Internacional before moving to Europe, where he played for clubs in Portugal and Turkey. His journey to Saudi Arabia saw him join Al-Wehda for a transfer fee of around $2.5 million in 2023. Anselmo’s ability to dictate the tempo of the game and his knack for scoring from long range have made him a fan favorite. His defensive contributions, including interceptions and tackles, add balance to the team’s midfield. Anselmo’s experience in multiple leagues has equipped him with the adaptability needed to thrive in the Saudi Pro League.
3. Faycal Fajr
Faycal Fajr, a Moroccan international, is a seasoned playmaker whose vision and passing accuracy have been instrumental for Al-Wehda. Born in Casablanca, Fajr began his career in France, playing for clubs like Caen and Getafe in Spain before moving to Saudi Arabia. His transfer to Al-Wehda in 2021 for a fee of $1.2 million was seen as a shrewd acquisition. Fajr’s ability to unlock defenses with his incisive through balls and set-piece expertise has made him a key figure in the team’s attacking strategy. Despite his advancing age, Fajr’s football intelligence and composure on the ball remain unmatched, ensuring he continues to be a vital presence in the midfield.
4. Hussain Al-Eisa
Hussain Al-Eisa, a rising star in Saudi Arabian football, represents the next generation of talent at Al-Wehda. Born in Riyadh, Al-Eisa progressed through the club’s youth academy before breaking into the first team. His technical skills, combined with his work rate and ability to read the game, have earned him a regular spot in the starting lineup. Al-Eisa’s development has been closely monitored by national team selectors, and he is widely regarded as a future star for both club and country. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively makes him a well-rounded midfielder capable of adapting to various tactical setups.
5. Vito van Crooij
Vito van Crooij, a Dutch midfielder, joined Al-Wehda in 2023 after a successful spell in the Eredivisie with Fortuna Sittard. Born in Maastricht, van Crooij began his career with PSV Eindhoven’s youth academy before establishing himself as a reliable midfielder in the Dutch top flight. His transfer to Al-Wehda for a fee of $3 million was seen as a significant coup for the club. Van Crooij’s ability to drive forward with the ball, combined with his eye for goal, has added a new dimension to Al-Wehda’s midfield. His experience in European football has also brought a level of sophistication to the team’s playing style.
6. Abdulaziz Noor
Abdulaziz Noor, a Saudi Arabian midfielder, has been a consistent performer for Al-Wehda over the past few seasons. Born in Jeddah, Noor began his career with Al-Ittihad before moving to Al-Wehda in 2020. His transfer fee of $500,000 was considered a smart investment given his potential. Noor’s energy and ability to cover ground quickly make him an essential component of the team’s pressing game. His versatility allows him to play in multiple midfield roles, from box-to-box to defensive midfield. Noor’s commitment to the club and his willingness to put in the hard yards have endeared him to the fans.
7. Jorge Fellipe
Jorge Fellipe, a Brazilian defensive midfielder, has been a rock in Al-Wehda’s midfield since his arrival in 2022. Born in São Paulo, Fellipe began his career with Corinthians before moving to the Middle East. His transfer fee of $1.8 million was justified by his ability to break up opposition attacks and distribute the ball effectively. Fellipe’s physical presence and tactical awareness make him a formidable opponent in the center of the park. His leadership on the field and ability to organize the team’s defensive structure have been crucial to Al-Wehda’s success.
8. Sultan Al-Sawadi
Sultan Al-Sawadi, a Saudi Arabian midfielder, is another product of Al-Wehda’s youth academy. Born in Mecca, Al-Sawadi has risen through the ranks to establish himself as a reliable option in the first team. His technical ability and composure under pressure have earned him praise from coaches and fans alike. Al-Sawadi’s ability to link play between defense and attack has been instrumental in the team’s build-up play. Despite his young age, he has shown maturity beyond his years, making him a promising prospect for the future.
9. Oday Kharoub
Oday Kharoub, a Jordanian international, joined Al-Wehda in 2023 after a successful spell with Al-Faisaly in Jordan. Born in Amman, Kharoub began his career with Al-Wehdat before moving to Saudi Arabia. His transfer fee of $700,000 was seen as a bargain given his experience and leadership qualities. Kharoub’s ability to control the midfield and his knack for scoring crucial goals have made him a valuable addition to the squad. His experience in international football has also brought a level of composure to the team’s midfield.
10. Abdulrahman Al-Aboud
Abdulrahman Al-Aboud, a Saudi Arabian midfielder, has been a consistent performer for Al-Wehda over the past few seasons. Born in Riyadh, Al-Aboud began his career with Al-Hilal before moving to Al-Wehda in 2021. His transfer fee of $600,000 was considered a smart investment given his potential. Al-Aboud’s energy and ability to cover ground quickly make him an essential component of the team’s pressing game. His versatility allows him to play in multiple midfield roles, from box-to-box to defensive midfield. Al-Aboud’s commitment to the club and his willingness to put in the hard yards have endeared him to the fans.
Conclusion
Al-Wehda’s midfield for the 2024/25 season is a blend of experience, youth, and international quality. Each player brings a unique set of skills that complements the team’s overall strategy, ensuring a balanced and dynamic midfield unit. From the creative brilliance of Faycal Fajr to the defensive solidity of Jorge Fellipe, Al-Wehda’s midfielders are poised to play a pivotal role in the club’s quest for success. As the season unfolds, fans can look forward to witnessing the contributions of these talented individuals, each of whom embodies the spirit and ambition of Al-Wehda Football Club.
