Algerian attacker Saïd Benrahma and Abdelhamid Sabiri have left their respective European leagues to join Saudi Arabia clubs.
Lyon agreed to let go Benrahma to Saudi second tier outfit Neom. Neom can exercise a buy out option to acquire Benrahma permanently if the Algerian winger has a successful stint. The ambitious club, backed by big spending, sit at the top of the Saudi First Division League and appear set for promotion to the top flight Saudi Pro League for next season. They will be looking to confirm top division status after acquiring the service of the former West Ham man.
The 29-year-old French-Algerian forward scored one Ligue 1 goal this season for Lyon, also adding a goal each in the Coupe de France and UEFA Europa League. He had a mixed season in Southern France and this will be his first-ever experience outside of Europe after previous spells in England and France.
Moroccan midfielder Sabiri opted for a loan deal as well after signing for Saudi Pro League side Al Taawoun from Italian Serie A club Fiorentina. His parent club previously loaned him out to another Saudi top flight club, Al Fayha, and Emirati club Ajman.
The 28-year-old enjoyed a successful loan at Fayha with 5 goals and 7 assists in 19 appearances during the 2023-24 season. His time with UAE Pro League side Ajman was much less successful this season with his loan being terminated for the new year after contributing 2 goals in 8 matches and seeing his role dwindle.
Al Taawoun are currently ninth in the Saudi Pro League. After being a substantial contributor to the Morocco national team's semifinal run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Sabiri has not appeared for the Atlas Lions since qualifying for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
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