Al-Shabab have completed their first summer signing by securing Awad Al-Nashri on a free transfer from Al-Ittihad. The Saudi midfielder put pen to paper on a two-year deal through 2028, with an optional extension, after his contract with the Jeddah club expired at the end of the previous season.
The 24-year-old departs after six years at Al-Ittihad, where he rose through the ranks following his breakthrough into the first team in 2020. During his tenure, Al-Nashri made 80 appearances for the club without recording a goal or assist, establishing himself as a squad rotation option in the midfield. His exit marks the fourth departure from Al-Ittihad this summer, following Colombian striker Ricardo Carballo, Brazilian midfielder Fabinho, and Saudi winger Abdulaziz Al-Bishi.
Fresh Start Under Letsch
Al-Nashri becomes the flagship arrival for The Lions under newly appointed German manager Thomas Letsch, who replaced Algerian coach Noureddine Ben Zekri. The midfielder aims to kickstart his career with increased playing time at his new club, with the broader ambition of forcing his way back into Saudi Arabia's national team plans following an appearance at the 2023 Arabian Gulf Cup.
The transfer exemplifies Al-Ittihad's roster pruning ahead of the new campaign, as the club continues reshaping its squad following a demanding season in the Saudi Pro League. Al-Nashri's free transfer reflects the club's decision not to extend his services, opening the door for his move to one of Saudi Arabia's traditional powerhouses. With regular football now within reach at Al-Shabab, the midfielder has an opportunity to revitalise his career and prove his worth at the domestic level.
