Roger Ibanez: My move to Al Ahly brought me back to the Brazilian national team
Ibanez confirms Al-Ahly's role in his return to the Brazilian national team
Brazilian defender Roger Ibañez, who plays for Al-Ahli Saudi FC, confirmed that his decision to move to the Saudi Professional League was a pivotal step in his career, noting that Al-Ahli was the key to his return to the Brazilian national team. Ibañez explained that the Saudi Professional League is currently experiencing a very high level of competition and challenge, thanks to the tremendous development the league has undergone and the presence of numerous world-class players across various Saudi clubs.
The intensity of the competition and the presence of stars in the Roshan League
The Brazilian defender explained that the competition in the domestic league isn't limited to just one or two teams, but extends to several clubs boasting a wealth of world-class players. He highlighted the strength of the competing clubs, noting that Al-Hilal includes prominent and powerful names such as Serbian Aleksandar Mitrovic, Brazilian Malcom, and local star Salem Al-Dawsari. Meanwhile, Al-Nassr possesses a constellation of distinguished players, including Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo and Senegalese star Sadio Mane. Ibanez added that other clubs, such as Al-Qadisiyah, have acquired strong and influential players like Mexican Julian Quiñones, in addition to Al-Ittihad, which boasts world-class stars like Frenchman Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kanté, Moussa Diaby, and Fabinho, making every match a true test of technical and physical abilities.
Changing the global perception of the Saudi League
In the broader context and historical background of this development, Ibanez's statement underscores the success of the sports development project launched by Saudi Arabia. This historic project has transformed the Saudi League from a regional competition into one of the world's leading football destinations. In the past, it was believed that any player's move from major European leagues to the Middle East automatically meant the end of their international career and their disappearance from the radar of national team coaches. However, with the global television broadcast of Roshan League matches in over 140 countries and the rising technical level of the games, these concerns have completely dissipated, and the Saudi League has become a platform for proving international merit.
The local and international impact of Ibanez's return
Regarding his international career, Ibanez indicated that returning to the Brazilian national team (Seleção) was one of his primary personal and professional goals from the moment he signed with Al-Ahli, joining from AS Roma. He explained that, like many players, he initially believed his absence from European football might negatively impact his chances of international selection. However, reality proved otherwise; his hard work, tactical discipline, and consistently strong performances in Al-Ahli's defense directly contributed to his regaining his place with the Brazilian national team.
Future ambitions with Al Ahly and Brazil
Ibanez is not the only player to have maintained his international status after arriving in Saudi Arabia. Other stars have preceded him, such as Aymeric Laporte, who won the European Championship with Spain while playing for Al-Nassr, and N'Golo Kanté, who returned to the French national team after joining Al-Ittihad. The Brazilian defender concluded by expressing his immense happiness and pride at returning to represent his country, emphasizing his complete commitment to giving his all for Al-Ahli to achieve further success and titles both domestically and continentally. This, he believes, will positively impact his international career and ensure his continued role as a key player for Brazil.
