Al-Ittihad have completed the signing of left-back Fares Abdi from Neom after finalising negotiations and agreeing the financial and contractual terms of the transfer.
The Saudi club confirmed the move in an official statement published on its social media accounts, announcing that the deal had been completed in recent hours.
Abdi’s arrival follows a recommendation from Al-Ittihad head coach Jens Vinsig, who identified the defender as a suitable addition to strengthen the team’s left side following the departure of Mario Mitaj.
The transfer is part of Al-Ittihad’s continuing work in the summer transfer market as the club prepares for the new season. Abdi was selected ahead of several other players who had been considered by the club, known as “the Tigers”, for the left-back position.
The 27-year-old was born in the US state of California and began his football career in the American game before moving to the Saudi league in 2020. His first Saudi club was Al-Wehda, where he continued his development after leaving the United States.
Abdi later represented Al-Qadsiah and Al-Fayha before joining Neom last summer. During his time with Neom, he made 34 appearances and provided three assists.
His move to Al-Ittihad gives the club another option on the left side of defence as it continues to reshape its squad ahead of the start of the new campaign. The club had been assessing a number of possible candidates for the position before reaching an agreement with Abdi.
The deal also provides a replacement for Mitaj, whose departure had left Al-Ittihad looking to reinforce the role. The club’s decision to proceed with Abdi came after discussions over the transfer were completed and the financial details had been agreed.
Al-Ittihad’s announcement confirms the latest addition to its summer recruitment plans, with the club continuing to strengthen its squad before competitive action begins. Abdi now joins after spells with Al-Wehda, Al-Qadsiah, Al-Fayha and Neom, and brings experience of playing in the Saudi league since his arrival in 2020.
