Al-Ittihad make Fabinho contract extension decision

Al-Ittihad has decided to postpone contract renewal talks for Fabinho, along with Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté, until the end of the current season. According to sources cited by Arriyadiyah, this strategic move aims to maintain the team’s focus on ongoing competitions without distractions from high-value contract negotiations during the season. The technical committee plans to open renewal discussions during the upcoming international break in December, just before these players enter free agency in January 2026, when they could potentially sign with other clubs without needing Al-Ittihad's consent.

Fabinho joined Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023 during a major investment phase for the club, which involved multiple high-profile signings from Europe. Since his arrival, Fabinho has been a key player, appearing in 80 matches and scoring 12 goals. His move from Liverpool, where he had spent five years and achieved numerous titles, was notable due to the significant transfer fee and salary commitment (a three-year contract reportedly worth €14 million annually).

The club’s decision to delay contract talks reflects its awareness of the potential destabilizing effect early negotiations can have on team dynamics, especially given the financial and sporting expectations linked to such experienced stars. From Liverpool’s perspective, Fabinho’s consistent performance was founded on long-term planning and trust, so Al-Ittihad’s next steps will significantly influence whether he remains in Saudi Arabia or pursues a new chapter in his career.