Al Ittihad Loans Faisal Al Ghamdi and Marwan Al Sahafi to Belgian Club Beerschot

Al Ittihad has announced the loan of two of its players, Faisal Al Ghamdi and Marwan Al Sahafi, to Belgian Pro League side Beerschot for the 2024-25 season. The Saudi Arabian internationals will represent the Antwerp-based club, joining a growing list of Saudi League players making moves to European teams, following Saud Abdulhamid’s recent transfer from Al Hilal to AS Roma.

In a statement released on Sunday night, Al Ittihad, the 2022-23 RSL champions, highlighted the strategic importance of this loan: “This move aligns with our programs and strategies aimed at developing young talent and supporting their growth. It is expected to positively impact their performance and contribute to the future goals of both the club and Saudi sports.”

Faisal Al Ghamdi, 23, who debuted in the RSL with Al Ettifaq in May 2022, made 30 league appearances before transferring to Al Ittihad in September last year. He featured in 18 matches during the 2023-24 RSL season, scoring once, and was named the league’s Young Player of the Month in November. Al Ghamdi earned his first senior national team call-up in January 2023 and scored for Saudi Arabia in the group stage of the 2023 AFC Asian Cup.

Marwan Al Sahafi, 20, began his professional career with Al Ittihad in October 2022, making 27 league appearances and scoring two goals. He recently earned his first international cap in June, coming on as a substitute in Saudi Arabia’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying victory against Pakistan.

At Beerschot, Al Ghamdi and Al Sahafi join a team that secured promotion to the Belgian top flight last season by winning the Challenger Pro League. The club, managed by former Dutch international Dirk Kuyt, has high expectations for the Saudi duo. Kuyt, a former player for Feyenoord, Liverpool, and Fenerbahce, expressed his confidence in their abilities: “We looked into Saudi talent and, after positive recommendations, chose Faisal and Marwan. They are excited to join, and I believe they will play a significant role in our ball-possession strategy.”

The pair is expected to contribute significantly to Beerschot’s campaign in the Belgian Pro League, where the team looks to establish itself after its recent promotion.

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Denis Hardin

American writer and avid traveler with an insatiable passion for soccer. Hailing from the heartland of the USA, Dennis brings a global perspective to his writings on Asian football. His articles are a fusion of cultural insights and sporting analysis, providing readers with a unique blend of perspectives. Whether he's exploring the bustling football scenes in Tokyo or sharing anecdotes from his time in Mumbai, Dennis's articles are a captivating journey through the diverse world of Asian football.