Al-Qadsiah Bolsters Midfield with Signing of German International Julian Weigl πΈπ¦
In a significant move to strengthen their squad for the upcoming Roshn Saudi League season, **Al-Qadsiah** has officially completed the signing of German defensive midfielder **Julian Weigl** from Borussia MΓΆnchengladbach. The transfer, finalized on September 1, 2025, marks a key acquisition for the newly promoted Saudi Pro League side as they aim to compete at the highest level domestically and beyond.
π€ Contract Details and Financial Terms
Weigl has signed a **two-year contract** with an option to extend for a third year, keeping him at the club until at least 2027. The financial terms of the deal are substantial, with the player set to earn an annual salary of **β¬7 million** (approximately $8.2 million), totaling up to **β¬21 million** over three years if the extension option is activated. The transfer fee paid to Borussia MΓΆnchengladbach is reported to be between **β¬7 million and β¬8 million**.
β½ Role and Expectations
Weigl, known for his composure, positional discipline, and ability to dictate play from deep midfield, is expected to provide immediate stability to Al-Qadsiah's midfield. His arrival comes as a direct replacement for Argentine midfielder **Ezequiel FernΓ‘ndez**, who recently departed for Bayer Leverkusen. The club's management views Weigl as a pivotal figure to balance the team and plug defensive gaps that have appeared in recent performances.
### π Weigl's Career and Experience
The 29-year-old brings a wealth of experience from top European leagues. He began his professional career at 1860 Munich, where he became the club's youngest-ever captain at age 18. He later joined Borussia Dortmund in 2015, establishing himself as a midfield mainstay before moving to Benfica in 2020. Weigl spent the last three seasons at Borussia MΓΆnchengladbach, making 94 appearances**, scoring **3 goals**, and providing **6 assists**. Internationally, he has represented Germany at various levels, including a call-up to the Euro 2016 provisional squad.
π£οΈ Statements from the Clubs
Roland Virkus, Borussia MΓΆnchengladbach's sporting director, expressed gratitude for Weigl's contributions: *"Julian has been a starter here for the past three seasons and has also fulfilled his role as a leader on the pitch and in the dressing room. We agreed to his wish to move and found a solution that benefits all parties."*
Weigl himself added: *"Iβm proud that I had the chance to wear a Borussia kit and always gave it my all for the team. I wish everyone at Borussia only the best for the future."*
### π Debut and Future Prospects
Weigl could make his debut for Al-Qadsiah in their **Matchweek 2 clash against Al-Hilal**, scheduled for September 10, 2025. This signing is part of Al-Qadsiah's broader strategy to reinforce their squad ahead of domestic and continental competitions. The club is also reportedly in negotiations to sign additional foreign players, including Al-Nassrβs Portuguese midfielder OtΓ‘vio, before the transfer window closes.
### π Al-Qadsiah's Ambition
This transfer underscores Al-Qadsiah's ambition to establish themselves as a competitive force in the Saudi Pro League. The club, based in Al-Khobar, welcomed Weigl with a social media post: *"For the Knights Battalion... security has increased. From the German League, Weigl has arrived."* With Weigl's leadership and technical qualities, Al-Qadsiah aims to achieve a strong finish in the league and make a mark in upcoming tournaments.
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