Wijnaldum joins Al-Ittihad on a one-year deal: midfield upgrade or short-term fix?

Georginio Wijnaldum’s free transfer to Al-Ittihad has quickly become one of the most debated moves of the final hours of the transfer window, with supporters divided over whether the experienced Netherlands midfielder is the solution to a genuine need or simply a way to fill a place in the squad.

The 35-year-old has signed a one-season contract and will continue his career in the Roshn Saudi League after three successful campaigns with Al-Ettifaq. During that time, Wijnaldum played 96 league matches, scoring 36 goals and providing 16 assists. Across all competitions, his record stood at 101 appearances, 38 goals and 17 assists, according to Al-Ettifaq’s data.

Wijnaldum is far more than a player whose age might immediately raise doubts. He has an exceptional European pedigree from his time with Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain and Roma, as well as extensive international experience with the Netherlands.

However, his age remains an important consideration for Al-Ittihad, particularly as the club aims to assemble a squad capable of competing across several competitions. The question is whether Wijnaldum can maintain his physical level throughout a demanding season.

His most recent campaign with Al-Ettifaq offers some encouragement. He scored 16 goals and registered seven assists in the Roshn Saudi League, making it the most prolific season of his career in Saudi Arabia.

Where does Wijnaldum fit alongside Richard Rios?

The main debate is not about whether Wijnaldum possesses the required quality, but how Al-Ittihad intends to use him.

The club had already strengthened its midfield by signing Colombian midfielder Richard Rios from Benfica before returning to Wijnaldum in the closing hours of the window to complete a deal without a transfer fee. That raises questions over the Dutchman’s precise role within the team.

Wijnaldum can operate in several midfield positions. He is capable of playing further forward or in a deeper role, while also helping his team retain possession, move between the lines and make late runs into the penalty area. Those qualities were evident during his spell with Al-Ettifaq.

Used in a role that suits his strengths, he could become a valuable addition. Al-Ittihad may not need him to be the “first star” of the side, but rather a player who connects the different parts of the team and gives the midfield composure and experience in important matches.

The financial structure of the deal also limits the risk. Al-Ittihad paid no transfer fee because Wijnaldum’s contract with Al-Ettifaq had ended, leaving him available as a free agent.

A one-year contract further reduces the concern surrounding his age. If Wijnaldum performs well, Al-Ittihad can benefit from his contribution during an important competitive season. If his form declines, the club will not be tied to a long-term agreement that could prove difficult to move on from.

In that respect, the deal differs from signing a major name on a lengthy contract with a substantial salary. Al-Ittihad have acquired a player with considerable experience of the same league, without a transfer fee and with only a short-term contractual commitment.

Ultimately, Wijnaldum’s success at Al-Ittihad will not be measured by his reputation or age, but by the role he fulfils within the team.

If he provides experience, creativity, attacking movement and control of possession, the Netherlands international could turn from a signing that prompted questions into the missing piece of the squad.

But if Al-Ittihad signed him simply because he was a major name available late in the transfer window, without a clear tactical purpose, the move may soon be viewed as little more than a short-term fix.

The decisive factor will be the coaching staff’s ability to bring out the best in Wijnaldum. The question is whether Al-Ittihad can make the most of the player he remains capable of being, or whether his reputation will prove greater than his role within the team.