A four-month suspension issued by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation defined the 2008 entry of Abdulmalek Al-Khaibri into professional ranks. The midfielder became the subject of a contract dispute after signing with both Al-Nassr and Al-Shabab simultaneously. Federation officials eventually ruled in favor of Al-Shabab, marking the beginning of a tenure that yielded multiple domestic trophies.
Early Career and Disputes
Born in Riyadh on 13 March 1986, Al-Khaibri began his professional trajectory at Al-Qadisiyah, where he played from 2007 until 2008. The transition to Al-Shabab followed a period of administrative conflict regarding his registration. After serving his suspension, he made his debut for the Riyadh-based club on 30 November 2008 in a league match against Al-Raed.
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The 2008–09 season brought immediate silverware as the team secured both the King Cup and the Federation Cup. During the 2011–12 campaign, Al-Khaibri appeared in 11 league matches, contributing to an undefeated season that resulted in the Pro League title. He recorded his first goal for the club against Hajer on 25 November 2011. In 2013, he committed to a three-year contract extension. His involvement in the 2013–14 King Cup included appearances in all six tournament matches, culminating in the club's third title in that competition.
Transition to Al-Hilal and Return
Al-Khaibri departed Al-Shabab at the end of the 2015–16 season after choosing not to renew his expiring contract. On 5 June 2016, he signed a three-year deal with Al-Hilal on a free transfer. His first season with the new club yielded a league and cup double. He subsequently returned to Al-Shabab on 6 July 2019 following another free transfer.
International Participation
Al-Khaibri represented the Saudi Arabian national team starting in 2011. He reached the pinnacle of his international involvement in May 2018 when officials named him to the squad for the FIFA World Cup held in Russia. Although selected for the tournament, he did not participate in any of the matches played by the team.
Fast facts
- Born: 13 March 1986, Riyadh
- Primary Position: Midfielder
- Professional Debut: 2007
- Key Club: Al-Shabab
- 2018 World Cup Status: Squad member
Questions readers ask
Did Abdulmalek Al-Khaibri win the Pro League with Al-Shabab?
Yes, he was part of the 2011–12 squad that won the league title while remaining undefeated.
Did Al-Khaibri play in the 2018 FIFA World Cup?
He was named to the Saudi Arabian squad for the tournament but did not appear in any matches.
