AS Roma have officially announced the signing of Saud Abdulhamid, marking a significant milestone in Serie A history as he becomes the first Saudi Arabian player to join a club in Italy’s top flight. The 24-year-old right-back arrives from Al-Hilal for a transfer fee of €2.5 million, with the potential for the total to rise to €3 million based on performance-related add-ons.
Abdulhamid touched down in Rome after a flight from Riyadh, where his arrival was captured by media outlets. He completed his medical examinations yesterday and finalized his contract with the club on Tuesday. This move not only enhances Roma’s defensive options but also symbolizes the growing ties between Saudi football and European leagues.
The young defender is known for his versatility, capable of playing on both flanks and even stepping into a central defensive role when needed. He began his professional career with Al-Ittihad before moving to Al-Hilal, where he made a significant impact, contributing to the team’s success with 27 assists and seven goals over 203 appearances.
Abdulhamid’s experience includes representing Saudi Arabia at the international level, where he earned 26 caps and played a crucial role during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He was part of the squad that achieved a historic victory over Argentina, showcasing his ability to compete on the world stage.
