Demiral says years alongside Ibanez have made Al Ahli defensive duo ‘telepathic’

Meri​h Demiral says his understanding with Al Ahli team-mate Roger Ibanez has become so strong that he can predict the Brazilian’s actions before they happen.

The Turkey defender has played alongside Ibanez at the centre of Al Ahli’s defence since both players joined the Saudi club in the summer of 2023. Demiral said the partnership had developed into something unique during their fourth season together.

“I am very lucky to play alongside Ibanez, and I am sure he feels the same,” Demiral said on The Mo Show podcast. “This is our fourth year together and I hope we can play alongside each other for many more years.”

Demiral explained that their understanding extends beyond patterns developed during matches, with both players able to recognise what the other intends to do in training.

“There is something special between us,” he said. “We spoke about it naturally last week when we were training. He wanted to do something and noticed that I already knew what he was going to do.”

Ibanez then told Demiral that he could anticipate his actions, prompting a light-hearted response from the defender.

“He said to me, ‘You already know what I am going to do’, so I told him, ‘Of course I know you better than my wife. I see you more than I see my children, and I know everything you are going to do, even off the pitch’.”

The pair have formed a central defensive partnership that Demiral said had helped Al Ahli win the AFC Champions League Elite twice and the Saudi Super Cup once since their arrival.

Demiral: Al Ahli’s strength is unity

Demiral, who arrived at Al Ahli around three years ago, also identified the close relationship between the club’s supporters, players and staff as the team’s defining quality.

“I think what makes our team and our club different from others is that we are one family,” he said.

“We are one entity. The fans, the club and the players are together. That is our secret, and I believe no other club has this.

“We will keep it. As long as we are here, we will preserve this spirit, so there is no need to worry about that.”

Al Ahli are listed to play Al Taawoun in the Saudi Pro League on 07 November 2026.