Saudi Pro League 2022-23: Team of the Season

Al-Ittihad players dominated with stellar performances

The 2022-23 Saudi Pro League season witnessed some outstanding individual performances from players across various teams. Al-Ittihad Club, led by their star-studded lineup, emerged victorious and clinched the league title. In this article, we present the Saudi Pro League Team of the Season, featuring standout players who played key roles in their respective teams' success.

Formation: 4-3-3

Goalkeeper: Marcelo Grohe (Al-Ittihad Club)

Marcelo Grohe, the Brazilian shot-stopper, displayed exceptional goalkeeping skills throughout the season. Joining Al-Ittihad from Gremio in January 2019, Grohe conceded a mere 13 goals in 30 appearances, maintaining an impressive 19 clean sheets. His commanding presence between the sticks was vital to Al-Ittihad's triumph.

Left-back: Ghislain Konan (Al-Nassr FC)

Ghislain Konan proved to be a reliable force in defence for Al-Nassr FC. With 27 appearances and four assists, Konan showcased his versatility and defensive prowess. His ability to contribute both in attack and defence made him an integral part of the team's setup.

Centre-back: Ahmed Sharahili (Al-Ittihad Club)

The summer signing from Al-Shabab had an impressive debut season with Al-Ittihad. In 23 league appearances, he notched up four goals and three assists, demonstrating his impact in both the defensive and offensive phases of the game. Sharahili's performances solidified Al-Ittihad's backline.

Centre-back: Ahmed Hegazi (Al-Ittihad Club)

Ahmed Hegazi, the experienced Egyptian defender, added stability and composure to Al-Ittihad's defence. With four goals and one assist in 28 league appearances, Hegazi's aerial prowess and defensive acumen were crucial in thwarting opposition attacks. His stint in the Premier League with West Brom showcased his quality, which he brought to the Saudi Pro League.

Right-back: Madallah Al-Olayan (Al-Ittihad Club)

Madallah Al-Olayan, a product of Saudi Arabian football, exhibited consistency and discipline in his performances for Al-Ittihad. With just two yellow cards in 24 league appearances, Al-Olayan's defensive solidity and positional awareness were commendable. His move from Al-Hilal in January 2022 proved to be a successful one for both the player and the club.

Centre-midfield: Kaku (Al-Taawoun FC)

Kaku, formerly with the New York Red Bulls in MLS, showcased his creative brilliance for Al-Taawoun FC. With an impressive tally of eight goals and a whopping 16 assists in 28 total appearances, the Brazilian playmaker mesmerised fans with his vision, technical skills, and ability to unlock defences.

Centre-defensive midfield: Luiz Gustavo (Al-Nassr FC)

A seasoned campaigner with clubs like Bayern Munich, Wolfsburg, and Marseille, he brought his wealth of experience to Al-Nassr FC. The Brazilian midfielder contributed significantly to the team's success, notching up six goals and four assists in 29 league appearances. Gustavo's defensive contributions and astute passing made him a crucial presence in midfield.

Centre-midfield: Romarinho (Al-Ittihad Club)

A key figure in Al-Ittihad's midfield, he had an impressive season, showcasing his attacking prowess. With 13 goals and five assists in 28 league games, the Brazilian midfielder consistently posed a threat to opposing defences. Romarinho's ability to find the back of the net and create scoring opportunities played a pivotal role in Al-Ittihad's title-winning campaign.

Left-wing: Firas Al-Buraikan (Al-Fateh SC)

Firas Al-Buraikan, a promising young talent at just 23 years of age, had a breakout season with Al-Fateh SC. With an impressive tally of 17 goals and four assists in 30 league games, Al-Buraikan showcased his clinical finishing and ability to make an impact on the left flank. His performances garnered attention and highlighted his potential for the future.

Striker: Odion Ighalo (Al-Hilal SFC)

Cristiano Ronaldo is snubbed in favour of Odion Ighalo, the former Manchester United striker who made a significant impact in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Hilal SFC. Ighalo's presence upfront provided a constant threat to opposing defences, and his ability to find the back of the net was evident as he scored 19 goals throughout the league season.

Right-wing: Mourad Batna (Al-Fateh SC)

Mourad Batna, the Moroccan winger, displayed his attacking prowess for Al-Fateh SC. With 10 goals and eight assists in 25 Saudi Pro League appearances, Batna showcased his creativity, pace, and ability to provide key contributions in the final third. His left-footed precision and intelligent play made him a standout performer.