Saudi Arabia international Saud Abdulhamid became the first player from the Kingdom to feature in Italy’s Serie A, making his debut on Sunday as a second-half substitute for AS Roma in a 1-0 loss to Napoli at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. The 25-year-old right-back entered the match in the 78th minute, replacing Turkish international Mehmet Zeki Celik. This landmark moment follows his record-breaking transfer in August, when Abdulhamid moved from Roshn Saudi League champions Al Hilal to AS Roma, becoming the first Saudi footballer to sign permanently for a team in one of Europe’s top-five leagues. Abdulhamid had already represented Roma in the UEFA Europa League, making his official debut in September as a substitute in a 1-1 draw against Spain’s Athletic Bilbao. He later earned his first start in the competition during a 1-0 defeat to IF Elfsborg in October. An integral part of Al Hilal’s successes, Abdulhamid played a key role in securing the 2021-22 and 2023-24 Saudi Pro League titles. His move to Roma has further solidified his status as a trailblazer for Saudi footballers in Europe. Roma, under new manager Claudio Ranieri, are set to face English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur in London on […]