Saleh Khalid Mohammed Al-Shehri became the first Saudi Arabian football player to record a goal in a European league match on 2 September 2012. Playing for the Portuguese side S.C. Beira-Mar against Moreirense, he established his profile as a forward capable of immediate impact at the professional level during his debut appearance.
Early Development and European Move
Born on 1 November 1993 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Al-Shehri began his training through the Al-Ahli Academy. He progressed through the junior and youth ranks before transferring to the Portuguese club S.C. Beira-Mar. Beyond his debut goal against Moreirense, he set a record for the fastest goal during the 2012-2013 Primeira Liga season in his subsequent appearance against Vitória. He concluded his stint in Portugal with two goals in two matches.
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Upon returning to Saudi Arabia, he rejoined Al-Ahli in July 2013, debuting in a friendly match against Najran. Throughout his career, he has maintained a consistent presence in the Saudi Pro League. He spent time at Al-Raed FC between 2015 and 2020, where he recorded 22 goals across 70 appearances. His tenure with Al-Hilal brought significant silverware, including three Saudi Pro League titles between 2019 and 2024, two King's Cup victories, and two AFC Champions League trophies. On 22 July 2024, he transferred to Al-Ittihad on a free transfer, where he subsequently secured further domestic honors.
International Representation
Al-Shehri participated in youth international football, representing the Saudi Arabia under-20 team at the 2012 AFC U-19 Championship. He scored against Qatar in a 4-2 victory, though the team was eliminated in the group stage. At the senior level, he gained global recognition on 22 November 2022 by scoring the opening goal for Saudi Arabia against Argentina during the FIFA World Cup held in Qatar. His international career has also included appearances at the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon, South Korea, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Fast facts
- Born: 1 November 1993
- Birthplace: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Position: Striker
- First Saudi Arabian to score in Europe: 2012
- Current club: Al-Ittihad
- Notable international goal: Against Argentina, 2022 FIFA World Cup
Questions readers ask
Which major clubs has Saleh Al-Shehri played for?
He has played for Al-Ahli, S.C. Beira-Mar, Al-Raed FC, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ittihad.
What record did Al-Shehri set in the Portuguese league?
He became the first Saudi Arabian player to score in a European league match and recorded the fastest goal of the 2012-2013 Primeira Liga season.
