Youssef En-Nesyri has officially completed his transfer to Al Ittihad on February 3, 2026, joining the Saudi Pro League club on a permanent deal reportedly valued at €14-15 million. The Moroccan striker signed a contract until 2029 after FIFA intervened to unlock administrative complications that initially threatened to derail the high-profile swap involving N’Golo Kanté.
Table of Contents
The Dramatic Transfer Saga
The transfer saga began as a high-profile swap deal between Al Ittihad and Fenerbahçe, with En-Nesyri heading to Saudi Arabia while French midfielder N’Golo Kanté moved in the opposite direction to Turkey. However, the deal nearly collapsed on deadline day when Al Ittihad entered incorrect information into FIFA’s Transfer Matching System, preventing approval before the window closed.
Fenerbahçe completed all required procedures, including medical examinations, obtaining necessary approvals, and uploading transfer documentation correctly within the specified timeframe. However, Al Ittihad’s data entry error blocked the registration process, forcing both clubs to request FIFA intervention.
FIFA’s Resolution and Deal Completion
After contacts with FIFA, the governing body approved an alternative solution allowing the transfer to proceed. While En-Nesyri’s move to Al Ittihad was ultimately approved, N’Golo Kanté’s transfer to Fenerbahçe had to be resolved separately through his mutual contract termination with Al Ittihad.
This administrative resolution represented a critical moment for both clubs, with Al Ittihad desperately seeking attacking reinforcements following Karim Benzema’s unexpected departure to rival Al Hilal.
Career Statistics and Performance Metrics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 28 years old |
| Nationality | Morocco |
| Previous Club | Fenerbahçe (2024-2026) |
| Fenerbahçe Record | 78 matches, 38 goals, 6 assists |
| International Caps | Multiple Morocco appearances |
| World Cup Experience | 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups |
| Contract at Al Ittihad | Until 2029 |
| Transfer Fee | €14-15 million |
| Playing Style | Clinical finisher, aerial threat |
| Notable Achievement | Leading scorer for Fenerbahçe |
Fenerbahçe’s One-and-a-Half-Year Stint
En-Nesyri joined Fenerbahçe on July 24, 2024, from Sevilla for €19.5 million, becoming the most expensive player in the club’s history. In just one-and-a-half seasons, he delivered remarkable statistics with 20 goals in 34 Super Lig matches during the 2024-25 season alone, establishing himself as a crucial attacking force for the Turkish side.
His aerial ability and clinical finishing made him invaluable to Fenerbahçe’s attacking setup, and his departure represents a significant blow to their title ambitions despite the incoming acquisition of N’Golo Kanté.
Al Ittihad’s Benzema Replacement
En-Nesyri arrives at Al Ittihad as the primary replacement for Karim Benzema, who shocked the club by departing to rival Al Hilal on an 18-month deal. At 28 years old, the Moroccan international provides proven goal-scoring pedigree at the highest levels, having scored consistently across La Liga, Super Lig, and European competitions.
His experience and consistency position him to immediately contribute to Al Ittihad’s championship aspirations while the club navigates the loss of their former talismanic striker.
International Significance
En-Nesyri’s move to Saudi Arabia carries implications for the Moroccan national team preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His consistent performances across European football have established him as a crucial figure in Morocco’s attacking plans, and his move to the Saudi Pro League raises questions about match fitness and competitive level.
Read More: Cristiano Ronaldo Boycotts Second Al Nassr League Game Over PIF Management
FAQs
What is the transfer fee for En-Nesyri to Al Ittihad?
The deal is reportedly valued at €14-15 million, making it a substantial investment for the Saudi Pro League club.
How long is En-Nesyri’s contract at Al Ittihad?
He signed a contract until 2029, providing Al Ittihad with long-term security on the player.
Why did the deal initially collapse on deadline day?
Al Ittihad entered incorrect information into FIFA’s Transfer Matching System, preventing registration before the window closed.
How many goals did En-Nesyri score for Fenerbahçe?
He scored 38 goals in 78 matches during his one-and-a-half-year tenure with the Turkish club.
What happened to N’Golo Kanté’s transfer to Fenerbahçe?
Kanté’s move was resolved separately through mutual contract termination with Al Ittihad, allowing him to join Fenerbahçe on a 2.5-year deal.
