Yahya Sulaiman Ali Al-Shehri set a new Saudi Pro League appearance record on 5 March 2026, marking his 345th match in the competition as a substitute against Damac. This milestone surpassed the previous record held by Mohammed Al-Fuhaid, cementing the attacking midfielder's long-standing impact on domestic football since his professional emergence in Dammam.
Early Career and Domestic Development
Born in Dammam on 26 June 1990, Al-Shehri emerged from the youth ranks of Ettifaq. He transitioned to the senior squad during the 2009–10 Saudi Professional League season. His early development included extensive representation within the national youth framework, encompassing appearances for the U-17, U-18, U-19, U-20, and U-21 Saudi Arabia squads.
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Al-Shehri secured a high-profile move to Al-Nassr on 1 June 2013 for a reported fee of 48 million Saudi Riyals, which at the time represented the largest financial deal in the history of Saudi football. His period with the club yielded significant silverware, including Saudi Pro League titles in 2013–14, 2014–15, and 2018–19. Additional honors during his time with Al-Nassr included the Crown Prince's Cup in 2013–14 and the Saudi Super Cup in 2019 and 2020.
International Experience and Overseas Loan
The midfielder made his senior national team debut in a friendly against Tunisia on 14 October 2009. His international career saw him participate in the 2015 AFC Asian Cup held in Melbourne, Australia. He was later named to the preliminary squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. During that same year, he joined the Spanish club CD Leganés on loan, becoming one of the nine Saudi players to venture into European football leagues.
Recent Club Movements
Following his tenure at Al-Nassr, Al-Shehri continued his career within the Saudi Pro League. He signed with Al-Raed on 19 August 2021. This was followed by a move to Al-Riyadh on a free transfer on 22 October 2023, where he has continued to feature in top-flight domestic competition.
Fast facts
- Born: 26 June 1990, Dammam
- Professional Debut: 2009–10 Saudi Professional League
- Record: 345 Saudi Pro League appearances
- Notable Club: Al-Nassr
- International Debut: 14 October 2009 vs Tunisia
- European Experience: CD Leganés (2018)
- Primary Position: Attacking midfielder
Questions readers ask
What is Yahya Al-Shehri's career appearance record?
He holds the record for the most appearances in the Saudi Pro League, reaching 345 matches on 5 March 2026.
Which major trophies has he won?
He has won three Saudi Pro League titles, the Crown Prince's Cup, and two Saudi Super Cup titles with Al-Nassr.
