Al-Ittihad have formally introduced the signing of Georginio Wijnaldum in the course of the summer time switch window, finishing the Dutch midfielder’s return to the Saudi Professional League after his departure from Al-Ettifaq.
The Saudi switch window formally closed on Sunday night, with Al-Ittihad confirming Wijnaldum’s arrival as considered one of their newest additions to the squad.
Softfootball reported again in April 2026 that Wijnaldum was set to depart Al-Ettifaq on the finish of the 2025/26 season when his contract expired on June 30, bringing his three-year spell with the membership to an finish.
The 35-year-old has now opted to stay in Saudi Arabia somewhat than return to Europe, placing pen to paper on a one-year contract with Al-Ittihad.
The transfer was formally confirmed by Al-Ittihad on their social media platforms, with the membership publishing an image of Wijnaldum alongside the message: “The Dutchman Wijnaldum joins Al-Ittihad for one sporting season.”
Wijnaldum arrives at Al-Ittihad as a free agent following the expiration of his Al-Ettifaq contract, that means the Saudi giants have secured an skilled midfielder with out having to barter a switch payment along with his former membership.
The Netherlands worldwide brings appreciable expertise to his new group, having loved a distinguished profession throughout a few of Europe’s greatest golf equipment.
Earlier than shifting to Saudi Arabia, Wijnaldum represented Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool, along with his time at Anfield notably memorable. He performed an necessary function in Liverpool’s midfield throughout their profitable interval beneath Jürgen Klopp and helped the membership win main honours.
His expertise within the Saudi Professional League might now show notably worthwhile at Al-Ittihad.
Though Wijnaldum left Al-Ettifaq after his contract expired, his earlier three seasons within the Roshn League imply he already understands the competitors, its enjoying atmosphere and the calls for of life in Saudi Arabia.
That familiarity might permit him to settle shortly at Al-Ittihad somewhat than requiring an prolonged adaptation interval.
At 35, Wijnaldum is coming into the newest stage of his profession, however his expertise, tactical understanding and data of the Saudi league might make him a helpful addition to Al-Ittihad’s midfield choices.
His arrival additionally offers the membership one other participant with expertise on the highest degree of European soccer, one thing that might show necessary as they pursue their home ambitions.
For Wijnaldum, the transfer represents one other chapter in his Saudi Arabian journey. After spending three years with Al-Ettifaq, the Dutchman will now stay within the nation however tackle a brand new problem with Al-Ittihad.
With the deal confirmed simply earlier than the Saudi switch window closed, Wijnaldum can now give attention to integrating into his new squad and making ready for his subsequent marketing campaign within the Roshn League.
