Italian star Matteo Rettigny , striker for Al-Qadsia's first football team, achieved a remarkable feat and set a new record in his professional career after scoring a decisive goal against Al-Kholoud. This goal came during the exciting match between the two teams in the 25th round of the Roshan Professional League, confirming the player's status as one of the league's top strikers this season.
Matteo Retegui surpasses Giovinco legend
Matteo Retigi continued his exceptional performances for Al-Ahli this season, reaching his 14th league goal. This tally not only gave his team a technical advantage but also cemented Retigi's place as the top Italian scorer in the history of the Saudi Professional League. With this achievement, Retigi surpassed his compatriot Sebastian Giovinco, nicknamed "The Atomic Ant," who previously enjoyed a successful stint with Al-Hilal, scoring 12 league goals. Retigi thus became the most prominent Italian goalscorer in Saudi Arabian football.
Al-Qadisiyah and the return of the knights to competition
Mathieu Retigui cannot be separated from the broader context of Al-Qadisiyah's strong return to the forefront of sporting events. This resurgence comes amidst the qualitative leap the club has undergone since its acquisition by Aramco, which provided administrative and financial stability, enabling it to attract world-class players of Retigui's caliber. This record-breaking performance reflects the success of the club's strategy of relying on high-caliber players capable of making a difference, and confirms that Al-Qadisiyah is no longer just a guest in the Roshan League, but a fierce competitor possessing the tools to challenge the top four clubs.
Global impact and evolution of the Roshan League
Matteo Retigui's success carries implications that extend far beyond the pitch; it reinforces the reputation of the Saudi Professional League as a magnet for European talent at the peak of their careers, not just in their twilight. The Italian striker's dominance in Saudi Arabia sends a powerful message to the international sporting community about the high level of competitiveness in the Saudi league. Furthermore, breaking Giovinco's long-standing record indicates the development of Saudi clubs' attacking systems and their rising goal-scoring rate, thus increasing the league's market value and popularity both regionally and internationally.
All-time Italian goalscorers in the league
With this goal, Retigui is rearranging the list of Italian professionals in Saudi Arabia, as the list now stands as follows:
- 14 goals: Matteo Retegui (Al-Qadisiyah) – the new record .
- 12 goals: Sebastian Giovinco (Al-Hilal).
