Fabinho on Saudi spell: “I’m a better player now” | OneFootball

Fabinho described the three years he has spent playing in Saudi Arabia for Al-Ittihad as very positive, during a press conference held this Thursday (4). Signed in 2023 after a successful spell at Liverpool, the defensive midfielder commented on the leadership role and prominence he has taken on with the Saudi team and sees himself as a “better player” now.

“When I went to Saudi Arabia, my status in the team changed to that of a key player, because that’s what they signed me for, and I think it helped me grow in terms of taking on that responsibility. I became captain, so it helped me with leadership, with being more communicative in the dressing room. It was a very good experience over these three years. The intensity is different, but because of the climate conditions, you adapt. I believe I’m a better player today. These years were good for me and for my career,” he said.

With the move to Middle Eastern football, the midfielder became one of the biggest names in the local league. His club, in fact, won both the Saudi Pro League and the King’s Cup in the 2024/25 season. Despite the titles and the presence of players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, and Benzema, he admitted that the move could hurt his chances with the national team.

Fabinho during a Brazil national team press conference in New JerseyCredits: Rafael Ribeiro/CBF

“I knew that changing clubs could distance me a little from the national team, but I always hoped to come back here. When I got an opportunity, it was up to me. It was a fairly long period, almost three years without being called up. It was very good to be back and show my work. Being here at the World Cup is very special,” he admitted.

Since becoming part of the Seleção again in the last call-up of last year, the Campinas-born São Paulo native sees an atmosphere of confidence in the pursuit of a sixth world title.

“What makes us dream big is knowing the quality of every player who is here and wearing the shirt of the five-time champions. I’ve only been here a short time, but there is great confidence in this group and in all the coaches. The work is being done well. There are things to improve, but we are very confident,” concluded Fabinho, who will play in his second World Cup.

Fabinho during a Brazil national team press conference in New JerseyCredits: Rafael Ribeiro/CBF

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.