Former France World Cup winner Nabil Fekir joins Abha on free transfer

Abha have signed former France World Cup winner Nabil Fekir on a free transfer, making the 33-year-old midfielder the latest high-profile arrival in the Saudi Pro League during the current summer transfer window.

The Saudi club, who were recently promoted to the Saudi Pro League, announced the deal in a video published on their official channels. Fekir joins after leaving United Arab Emirates club Al Jazira at the end of last season, when his contract expired.

Abha did not disclose the full details of the agreement. However, previous media reports said Fekir had agreed to a one-year contract, with an option to extend it for a further season.

His arrival represents a significant addition for Abha, who will benefit from the experience of a player who was part of France’s victorious 2018 FIFA World Cup squad in Russia. Fekir appeared in every match of the tournament as a substitute, although he did not score or provide an assist.

Fekir began to establish himself at senior level with Olympique Lyonnais, where he enjoyed a prominent spell between 2013 and 2019. He then moved to Real Betis, spending five successful years with the Spanish club before joining the United Arab Emirates league with Al Jazira in 2024.

He made a strong contribution during his first season with Al Jazira. Fekir played 25 matches, scoring 10 goals and providing four assists.

That record adds attacking quality to an Abha side who have moved quickly to strengthen after their promotion to the Saudi Pro League. The club’s announcement confirms the signing but does not include details of the salary, the precise length of the contract or the reported renewal clause.

Fekir’s career has included spells in France, Spain and the United Arab Emirates, as well as international success with France. His role in the 2018 World Cup-winning squad came despite limited minutes, with all of his appearances coming from the bench.

The move to Abha now gives the former Olympique Lyonnais and Real Betis player a new challenge in Saudi football. It also adds a World Cup winner to the club’s squad without a transfer fee, following the conclusion of his deal with Al Jazira.

Abha’s recruitment of Fekir is one of the latest notable moves in the Saudi Pro League’s summer transfer activity. The club will hope his experience and recent attacking output can help them compete after stepping up to the top flight.