Official: Youssef En-Nesyri Joins Al Ittihad as €15M Deal Unlocked After FIFA Resolves Issues

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.

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

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