In a move reflecting the significant progress of Saudi football on the global stage, right-back Saud Abdulhamid has firmly established himself in the French league, earning a place in the Team of the Week by the renowned French sports daily L'Équipe. This selection is a culmination of the high-level performances the player has delivered with his club Toulouse, which have attracted the attention of critics and fans alike in one of Europe's strongest leagues.
Abdelhamid's selection came after his exceptional performance, which combined defensive solidity with offensive effectiveness. L'Équipe praised his high level of tactical discipline, along with his blistering speed in defensive transitions and his ability to provide attacking support on the right flank. The report highlighted his ability to read the game and make sound decisions in crucial moments, emphasizing that his contributions extended beyond defense to include creating scoring opportunities and threatening the opponent's goal, making him one of the standout players of the round and one of the most influential in the match's outcome.
A remarkable journey towards global recognition
Saud Abdulhamid's rise to prominence was no accident; it was the culmination of a professional career that began in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ittihad, where he progressed through the youth ranks until reaching the first team and emerging as one of the club's brightest young talents. He then moved to Al-Hilal in a high-profile transfer, where he further honed his skills and achieved numerous domestic and continental accolades, most notably winning the AFC Champions League and the Saudi Professional League titles. These successes paved the way for an ambitious professional move to French club Toulouse in the summer of 2024, making him a new ambassador for Saudi football in Europe.
The importance of the achievement and its expected impact
This selection carries immense significance that transcends mere individual recognition. Domestically, this achievement serves as an inspiration to the new generation of Saudi players, affirming their ability to compete and succeed at the highest levels. It also enhances the reputation of the Saudi league as a breeding ground for talent capable of playing professionally abroad. Internationally, the success of players like Saud Abdulhamid helps to change the stereotypical image of Gulf players and opens doors for more Saudi and Arab talents to move to major European leagues, thus raising the level of national teams in the long run.
