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Al-Ittihad are entering a decisive stage of their season, and every call the club makes carries weight.
They are chasing ground in the Saudi Pro League, competing in cup fixtures, and trying to stabilise a team that has seen major changes over the past two years.
The pressure is real, and the club wants the squad fully focused on the pitch.
This is the same team that made headlines during the major spending wave of 2023 when they brought in big names from Europe.
Those signings came with high expectations and high financial commitments.
Because of that, any conversation about renewals now has to be handled carefully.
The club knows the importance of timing.
They know how early talks can unsettle a dressing room.
They also know how waiting too long can cause problems with players entering the final stages of their contracts.
Fabinho sits right in the middle of this situation.
Liverpool supporters still follow him closely.
He was a reliable figure at Anfield.
They know how important stability is for him, and they know how much clarity helps a player who thrives on rhythm and structure.
That is why the next steps matter not only for Al-Ittihad but also for fans watching from afar.
Sources speaking to Arriyadiyah say Al-Ittihad have now made their decision.
The club will postpone all contract renewal talks for Fabinho, Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté until the end of the current season.
The report said, “These sources indicate that this move is part of the club’s strategy to maintain the team’s full focus during the season’s competitions before entering into any negotiations concerning renewals with players on high-value contracts.”
“The technical committee plans to begin discussions with the three players during the upcoming international break in December, before they enter the free agency period in January 2026, which would allow them to sign with any club without needing the consent of their current club.”
This is part of the club’s plan to keep full concentration on their competitions before entering negotiations with players on major contracts.
The technical committee will open discussions during the international break in December, just before the players become eligible to negotiate with other clubs in January 2026 as free agents.
Fabinho has been a key part of the squad since arriving in the 2023 “Big Summer” window.
He has played 80 matches for the club and scored 12 goals.
From a Liverpool perspective, there will be interest in how this develops.
His consistency at Anfield was built on clear planning and long-term trust.
What Al-Ittihad decide next will determine whether he continues in Saudi Arabia or steps into a new chapter.
Read more: Ibrahima Konate breaks silence on contract talks as defender signals imminent decision
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