Meet Talal Haji, the wonderkid set for his Saudi Arabia debut. The 2nd-youngest ever to be called up
At just 16 years and 57 days old, Talal Haji of Al Ittihad has emerged as the second-youngest player ever to be called up by the Green Falcons, following in the footsteps of the legendary Ahmed Jamil.
As Saudi Arabia gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Pakistan, Haji’s inclusion in Roberto Mancini’s squad has ignited anticipation and curiosity across the nation.
Chasing History: Talal Haji’s journey to international recognition mirrors the early days of Ahmed Jamil, the iconic Saudi defender who earned 117 caps for his country.
Jamil made his debut at 16 years and 53 days, a record that Haji is poised to challenge.
Ahmed Jamil Madani, born on January 6, 1970, is now a retired Saudi Arabian footballer renowned for his prowess in a defensive role.
Throughout his illustrious career, Madani solidified his position as one of the best Saudi defenders, earning recognition in the country’s football history.
The International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) further honored him by including Madani in the prestigious best eleven in the history of Saudi Arabia.
Dedicating his entire playing career to Al-Ittihad, Madani not only showcased his skills at the domestic level but also made significant contributions on the international stage.
His standout performance played a crucial role in Saudi Arabia’s qualification for the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
In a historic victory against Belgium, Madani emerged as a key player, leaving an indelible mark not only in that match but throughout the entire tournament.
His commitment and skill on the field have etched his name in the annals of Saudi Arabian football history.
Extraordinary Rise: Scouted by his hometown club Al Ittihad at the age of 14, Haji quickly ascended through the ranks, becoming the primary striker for the Saudi Arabia U17 national team.
His goal-scoring prowess was showcased in the Arab U17 Championships in Algeria, where he emerged as the top scorer with seven goals.
International Acclaim: In the AFC U17 Asian Cup in Thailand, Haji’s impactful performances, including a brace against Tajikistan, propelled Saudi Arabia to the quarterfinals.
Saudi Arabia U23 head coach Bandar Al Jaithan likened Haji to Majid Abdullah, the nation’s all-time top scorer, praising his movement, technical ability, and finishing.
Recognition by Nuno Espirito Santo: Former Al Ittihad coach Nuno Espirito Santo recognized Haji’s potential early on, inviting him to train with the first team before his 16th birthday.
Haji officially joined the senior ranks at the onset of the 2023–24 season, making history as the youngest player to feature in the Saudi Pro League.
Senior Debut and High Expectations: Haji’s senior debut came at the age of 16 years and five days when he entered the pitch as a substitute in a 2-1 victory over Al Fateh.
His combination of pace, physique, and composure at a young age has positioned him as an exciting prospect for Saudi Arabian football.
Looking Ahead: As Saudi Arabia anticipates hosting the 2034 World Cup, Talal Haji, at 16, is already making strides towards being a key player for the national team.
The prospect of his potential debut against Pakistan adds a historic element to his burgeoning career, symbolizing a new era in Saudi Arabian football.
Talal Haji’s journey from a scouted talent to a national sensation exemplifies the promise and potential within Saudi Arabian football.
As he embarks on the path towards potentially leading the line in the 2034 World Cup, Haji’s story becomes a testament to the nation’s commitment to nurturing young talent and securing a bright future for the sport.
