Co Big Deals, Bigger Ambitions, Inside This Week’s Saudi Football News: A Big Week in Arab Football

This week’s football world is buzzing with major moves and some serious plot twists—let’s dive in! 👀⚡ First up, Al Nassr is setting the stage for a big loan deal, sending Al-Amri to Al-Ittihad, with the rumor mill suggesting it’s all linked to a possible Diaby transfer. 🤯 Meanwhile, Al Hilal just made waves with the completion of a massive five-year signing for Murad Al Hawsawi. 🌊💥 But they’re not stopping there, as reports are swirling that they’re targeting Rennes' striker Mohamed Meity for a January switch. 👀💰 Over at the Joy Awards, goalkeeper Yassin Bounou and fan-favorite Layla Al Qahtani snagged top honors—talk about fan power! 🏆 And lastly, big news off the pitch as Jason Puncheon joins the Arabian Falcons as their new Head of Football Ops and Co-Owner. 🔥⚽💪

Al Hilal Complete Five-Year Signing of Murad Al Hawsawi

• Al Hilal have officially completed the signing of Saudi international Murad Al Hawsawi from Al Khaleej, securing the 24-year-old midfielder on a five-year contract to strengthen their squad.

• Al Hawsawi has emerged as one of Saudi football’s standout young players after impressive performances with Al Khaleej, attracting interest from several clubs before Al Hilal moved decisively to finalize the deal.

• The move aligns with Al Hilal’s strategy of investing in youth with international experience, as the Saudi national team player is expected to add depth and quality ahead of continental campaigns.

Al Nassr Set to Loan Al-Amri to Al-Ittihad in a Deal Linked to moving Diaby to Al Nassr

• Al-Nassr have reached an agreement with Al-Ittihad to loan defender Abdullah Al-amri until the end of the season, marking a domestic move between both clubs.  

• This loan deal is valued at $1.3 million ( 5 million riyals) and reflects on Al-Ittihad’s immediate defensive needs, also while Al-Nassr looks to balance their squad depth

• However, the agreement includes a key condition, with Al-Nassr requesting the loan of winger Moussa Diaby, turning the transaction into a smart strategic exchange potentially benefiting both clubs.

MWC Doha 2025: A Historic Milestone for the Middle East

The inaugural MWC Doha 2025 made history as the first-ever Mobile World Congress in the Middle East, and it exceeded all expectations. This landmark event brought together almost 9,500 total attendees from 110 countries and territories, with 39% representing sectors adjacent to the mobile ecosystem.

The event featured nearly 300 speakers across keynotes, summits, and programmes, while 250+ exhibitors and sponsors showcased cutting-edge innovations. The 4YFN platform hosted over 100 global and regional start-ups, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the region.

High-level participation was remarkable, with 60 delegations attending ministerial programmes representing 49 countries, including 17 ministers and 14 heads of regulatory authorities. Additionally, 11 intergovernmental organisations participated, and over 30 partnerships and announcements were signed.

MWC Doha 2025 has firmly established itself as a pivotal platform for mobile innovation in the Middle East.

Yassin Bounou and Layla Al Qahtani win fan Favorite Honors at the Joy Awards in Saudi

• Yassine Bounou was named Favorite Male Athlete at the Joy Awards, reflecting his standout performances, leadership, and consistency as one of football’s most reliable goalkeepers on the global stage.

• The Moroccan international earned widespread admiration for his decisive saves in major tournaments and continued excellence at club level, cementing his reputation as a player trusted in high-pressure moments.

• Layla Al Qahtani captured the Favorite Female Athlete award, recognized for her determination, competitive spirit, and growing influence as a role model for women’s sports across the region.

• Her performances and professionalism have helped elevate visibility for female athletes, inspiring a new generation while reinforcing her status as one of the most respected figures in regional sport.

Jason Puncheon Joins Arabian Falcons as Head of Football Operations and Co-Owner

• Arabian Falcons have announced Jason Puncheon as their new Head of Football Operations and Co-Owner. The former professional footballer brings extensive experience and leadership, aiming to shape the club’s future strategy.

• Puncheon enjoyed a successful playing career in England, including stints with Crystal Palace and Millwall, amassing over 400 appearances. His on-field insight is expected to influence recruitment, training, and player development at the Falcons.

• Head of Football Operations & Co-Owner, Jason Puncheon: “I believe in a clear football vision built on structure, development, and ambition. and I’m looking forward to the journey ahead.”

18-year-old Belal Attia is heading to Hannover 96 from Al Ahly

• According Attia was at Stuttgart last year for a trial during the summer, following the footsteps of Omar Marmoush. He returned to Al Ahly, having previously made a senior appearance, but is now heading to Germany once again to go on trial with Hannover.

• Belal played for Egypt in the U-17 FIFA World up as well as the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations. The Midfielder managed to earn himself a man of the match award in the U-17 World cup against Haiti.

🤖🎙️Tune Into the Smashi Sports AI Podcast for the Latest Insights!

• Don’t miss out on the Smashi Sports AI Podcast in English, where we bring you the latest sports news through the power of AI!

• For our Arabic-Speaking listeners, we’ve got you with game-changing transfers to insider analysis, we’ve got all the updates you need.

SMASHI MOMENTS

⚽🏀 Sharable Bits & Highlights !

• Morocco tried to prevent rival goalkeepers Senegal from using towels — fear of black magic or just a tactic to weaken their saves.

• Cristiano once again sparks controversy with his celebration… Did he deserve a red card after hitting Al-Shabab’s goalkeeper?

• Nasser Al-Khelaifi was awarded the Diamond Honorary Award at the 2026 Joy Awards in Saudi Arabia.

• Jordan U23 goalkeeper conceded a penalty in the weirdest way possible during the Jordan vs Japan U23 match.

• Shikabala was recently spotted training in Zamalek to regain his form.

• Senegal submitted an official complaint after this incident in Rabat.

• Mohamed Salah takes a selfie with a young fan after arriving at Casablanca!

• Hamza Igamane went to celebrate with his mother after reaching the AFCON final.

 Were you forwarded this email? Subscribe Here