Neom FC bids farewell to Salman Al-Faraj: The journey to the Roshan League comes to an end
Newly promoted to the Saudi Professional League, NEOM FC announced the end of their captain and veteran midfielder Salman Al-Faraj with the team, following a historic season in which he led them to their promotion dream. The announcement came via the club's official accounts, which posted a touching video documenting the player's highlights, accompanied by a heartfelt farewell message: "A beautiful story... an unforgettable chapter... Thank you, Salman."
Al-Faraj's departure marks the end of a significant chapter in the early history of the ambitious Neom club. His signing in the summer of 2023 was a sensational move in the then-first division, as it was unusual for a player of Al-Faraj's stature, who had spent his illustrious career with Al-Hilal, to transfer to the top flight. This move sent a clear message about the seriousness of Neom's sports project and its desire to reach the top as quickly as possible.
Salman Al-Faraj's impact on the rise
contribution wasn't limited Salman Al-Faraj's to his on-field performance; it extended to his crucial leadership role in the locker room and the vast experience he shared with the younger players. After a remarkable 16-year career with Al-Hilal, during which he won every possible title both domestically and continentally, including the AFC Champions League and the Saudi Professional League multiple times, Al-Faraj arrived in NEOM with a winning mentality and a thirst for championships. He successfully translated this experience into reality, becoming a pivotal element in the team's string of positive results that ultimately led to their promotion to the top flight.
Overcoming injury and making an inspiring comeback
Al-Faraj's experience with NEOM came after a difficult period in his career, as he was recovering from a serious cruciate ligament injury sustained while playing for the Saudi national team in the 2022 World Cup. Joining NEOM represented a personal challenge for him to prove his ability to return to the pitch and perform at his best, which he successfully did. He gradually returned to playing and delivered strong performances, becoming an inspiring story of perseverance and overcoming adversity. This comeback contributed to strengthening the team's progress towards achieving its desired goal.
With his time at NEOM now over, attention turns to the future of the former international player, amid questions about his next destination and whether he will continue playing with another club or retire from football altogether. Meanwhile, NEOM is preparing for its first experience in the Roshan League, bolstered by the legacy and foundation laid by great players like Salman Al-Faraj.
