Iraqi star and Al-Riyadh player Ibrahim Bayesh confirmed that he played a pivotal role in convincing his talented compatriot Haider Abdul Karim to join Saudi club Al-Nassr, a move he described as "an important addition to the club and a great source of pride for Iraqi football." This transfer further strengthens the Iraqi presence in the Saudi Professional League, which has become a destination for some of the world's top football stars.
In an exclusive interview with MBC, Bayesh revealed details of his conversation with Abdulkarim, explaining that he advised him to accept Al-Nassr's offer without hesitation. Bayesh said, "I spoke with Haider and told him that the opportunity to play for a club the size of Al-Nassr, with its rich history and massive fan base, doesn't come around every day. Al-Nassr isn't just a local club; it's a beacon of Saudi and Asian football, and playing for them represents a challenge and an opportunity to develop at the highest level." Bayesh expressed his complete confidence in Abdulkarim's ability to prove his worth and deliver outstanding performances worthy of his name and that of his new club.
General context: Roshan League as a destination for stars
Haider Abdul Karim's move to Al-Nassr comes at a time when the Saudi Professional League is experiencing an unprecedented boom, with Saudi clubs attracting global superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema. This development hasn't been limited to international stars; it has also included attracting top Arab and regional talents, raising the level of competition and making the league a focus of attention for fans worldwide. The addition of a young and promising Iraqi player to one of the league's powerhouses, Al-Nassr, reflects the club's strategy of building a well-rounded team that combines international experience with promising regional talent.
The importance of the deal and its expected impact
Domestically, Haider Abdul-Karim, a left-back, is expected to be a strong addition to Al-Nassr's defense, giving the team greater tactical options and depth in its squad as it competes for all titles. Regionally, this deal strengthens sporting ties between Iraq and Saudi Arabia, opening the door for more Iraqi players to shine in Saudi stadiums, inspired by the successful experiences of names like Nashat Akram and Younis Mahmoud. Internationally, such transfers contribute to solidifying the Saudi league's position as one of the major leagues attracting talent from around the world.
Ibrahim Bayesh concluded his remarks by addressing a special message to Al-Nasr fans, saying: “I ask you to support and stand by Haider Abdul Karim. He is a player with great potential and a strong personality, and with your support he will become one of the best players in the team. Trust him, he is up to the task and will do his best to make you happy.”.
