Fares Abdi joins Al-Ittihad as Saudi club reshapes left flank

Al-Ittihad have completed the signing of left-back Fares Abdi from Neom after concluding negotiations and agreeing the financial and contractual terms of the deal.

The Saudi Pro League club confirmed the move in an official statement published on its social media accounts, announcing that the transfer had been finalised in recent hours.

Abdi’s arrival follows a recommendation from head coach Jens Vinsig, who identified the 27-year-old as the player to strengthen Al-Ittihad’s left side following the departure of Mario Mitaj.

Al-Ittihad are continuing to reinforce their squad during the summer transfer window as they prepare for the start of the new season. Abdi emerged as the club’s preferred option after competing with several other candidates who had been considered for the left-back position.

The deal brings the United States-born defender to one of Saudi Arabia’s leading clubs after a spell with Neom. Abdi was born in California and began his career in the American football system before moving to the Saudi league in 2020.

His first Saudi club was Al-Wehda, where he began his experience in the country’s domestic competition. He later represented Al-Qadsiah and Al-Fayha before joining Neom last summer.

Abdi spent the past season with Neom, making 34 appearances and providing three assists. His performances helped place him ahead of the other left-back options assessed by Al-Ittihad during their recruitment process.

The transfer is intended to provide additional depth and competition on the left side of Al-Ittihad’s defence, with the club seeking to complete its preparations before the new campaign begins.

Mario Mitaj’s departure had left the position in need of reinforcement, and the club moved to address that requirement by securing Abdi’s signature after the financial and contractual details were settled.

The official confirmation ends the negotiations between Al-Ittihad and Neom and makes Abdi the latest addition to the squad during the summer recruitment period.