Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – Al-Ittihad Saudi Club completed its contract with Dutchman Georginio Wijnaldum, the former Al-Ettifaq midfielder, during the final hours of the summer transfer period. This came as a free transfer.
The Federation officially announced the inclusion of Wijnaldum on a contract extending for one sporting season. Thus, the Dutch player continues in the Saudi Roshen League competitions after his departure from Al-Ettifaq at the end of last season.
Wijnaldum joined Al-Ettifaq in the summer of 2023 from Paris Saint-Germain. He played for the Saudi club for three seasons before his contract expired and he became a free agent.
The Dutch midfielder presented distinguished numbers during his experience with Al-Ettifaq, as he participated in 101 matches in various competitions. During which he scored 38 goals and made 17 assists. At the Rushen League level, he played 96 matches, in which he scored 36 goals and provided 16 assists.
Wijnaldum’s joining Al-Ittihad comes to strengthen the team’s midfield, after the departure of Brazilian Fabinho at the end of his contract with the club.
During the summer transfer window, Wijnaldum’s name was linked with a possible move to Chelsea. However, the deal fell through, and he ultimately decided to continue his career in the Saudi Professional League with Al-Ittihad.
The 35-year-old Wijnaldum has a distinguished European career. He previously played for Feyenoord and PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands, as well as Newcastle United and Liverpool in England, Paris Saint-Germain in France, and Roma in Italy.
At the international level, Wijnaldum played 96 matches for the Netherlands national team, during which he scored 28 goals. In addition, he has extensive experience in European tournaments, including winning the Champions League, the English Premier League, and the French League.
