Former Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum will be on the lookout for a new club this summer after Al-Ettifaq confirm his departure from the club.
The Saudi Pro League outfit officially announced on Monday that they have reached an agreement to part ways with Wijnaldum. The 35-year-old Netherlands international joined the club in 2023, and would now be allowed to leave primarily due to financial considerations within the Al-Ettifaq’s current structure.
Al-Ettifaq’s decision brings an end to a relatively productive spell for the Dutchman in the Middle East.
During his time at the club, Wijnaldum was consistent in Al-Ettifaq’s starting XI, often serving as the link between the midfield and the attack.
However, with the club looking to balance the books and refresh their overseas slots, the former Newcastle man was identified as a candidate for release.
Georginio Wijnaldum during a match for Al Ettifaq. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Wijnaldum’s last season at the club saw him score 16 times and provide seven assists in 33 league matches. Wearing the captain’s armband, he led Al-Ettifaq’s to a seventh place in the league standings.
The 35-year-old is now expected to make a decisive decision on his future thus summer. Initial reports suggest that the player is not ready to retire and is seeking a challenge in a competitive environment that keeps him in the eye of top-tier football.
Wijnaldum has the summer to decide as he’s not among Netherlands official list for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
