Fatih Terim, a name synonymous with success in European football, is making his mark on the Saudi Pro League. Since taking the helm of Al-Shabab on December 27, 2024 [[1]], the veteran coach has initiated a flurry of transfer activity aimed at bolstering his team’s standing in the league.
Currently sitting sixth in the league with 23 points after 13 weeks, Al-Shabab trails the leader by a significant margin.Terim’s enterprising transfer strategy aims to close that gap.Reports from Saudi Arabian media outlets highlight the intensity of the club’s pursuit of key players.
A Premier League Keeper Joins the Ranks
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One of the most significant moves involves Martin Dubravka, the Slovak goalkeeper who recently lost his starting position at Newcastle United to Nick Pope. Al-Shabab has reportedly reached a preliminary agreement with the 35-year-old,whose contract with Newcastle expires at the end of the season. dubravka’s limited playing time this season—only four league appearances—suggests a desire for more regular game time, a prospect Al-Shabab can offer.
A Familiar Face Returns: The Lemina Pursuit
Adding another layer of intrigue to Al-Shabab’s transfer saga is the pursuit of Mario Lemina. News outlets report that Terim, keen to reunite with a former player from his time at Galatasaray, is actively working to secure Lemina’s transfer. Lemina’s current situation at Wolverhampton is less than ideal; he’s been stripped of the captaincy and dropped from the squad following a disagreement with manager Garry O’Neill. With his contract expiring at the end of the season, the 31-year-old Gabonese midfielder is a prime target, and his name has also been linked with a return to Galatasaray.
The Saudi Arabian press is buzzing with speculation about other potential acquisitions, including reports that Al-Shabab is interested in Leandro Paredes of AS Roma [[3]]. This aggressive approach to player recruitment underscores Terim’s determination to transform Al-Shabab into a major force in the Saudi pro League.
Fatih Terim Shakes Up Saudi pro League with Enterprising Transfer Spree
world Today news Senior Editor, Mark Robinson, talks to renowned football analyst, Matteo ferrari, about the impact of Fatih Terim’s arrival in saudi Arabia.
Mark Robinson: Welcome, Matteo.Fatih Terim’s appointment at Al-Shabab raised eyebrows. What did you make of his decision to take on a new challenge in the Saudi Pro League?
Matteo Ferrari: It’s certainly a bold move. Terim, as we know, is a giant of European football with a CV boasting triumphs at major clubs. He’s the kind of manager who craves winning, and while the Saudi Pro League is clearly developing, it’s still not a proving ground for established coaches like him. He likely sees immense potential in Al-Shabab and the league itself.
Mark Robinson: Since his arrival, Terim seems to have wasted no time. The transfer rumours surrounding Al-shabab are quite explosive. Can you give our readers a rundown of the key targets?
Matteo Ferrari: Absolutely. it seems Terim is intent on creating a powerhouse. The major name doing the rounds is Martin Dubravka. The Slovakian keeper has fallen out of favor at Newcastle,and Terim clearly sees him as the solution to Al-Shabab’s goalkeeping needs. There’s also talk of a reunion with mario Lemina,a player Terim knows well from his time at Galatasaray. Lemina’s situation at Wolves is complicated, and Terim could offer him a fresh start. and let’s not forget the whispers about Leandro Paredes. Landing the AS Roma midfielder would be a massive statement of intent.
Mark Robinson: It’s a dizzying list. What are the chances of Al-Shabab pulling off these deals?
Matteo Ferrari: It’s too early to say without a doubt. Financial resources are obviously a factor, and Al-Shabab seems to have them in abundance.But football is about more than just money. Terim’s reputation abertaking a club from strength to strength works in Al-Shabab’s favor. They could appeal to players looking for a new challenge.With these signings, Terim’s aim will be to shut the gap on the league leaders. It’s going to be captivating to watch how this plays out.
Mark Robinson: Thank you, Matteo, for sharing your valuable insights. We can all look forward to seeing how this exciting chapter in Fatih Terim’s career unfolds.
