Fernando Pacheco Set to Join Al Fateh on One-Year Contract

Spanish goalkeeper Fernando Pacheco is close to signing with Saudi Pro League team Al Fateh. He has agreed to a one-year deal with an option for an additional year.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Al Fateh has reached an agreement with Fernando Pacheco, an experienced Spanish goalkeeper who last played for Espanyol. The 33-year-old will travel to Saudi Arabia for his medical examination soon. Pacheco became a free agent after leaving Espanyol earlier this summer. He is expected to sign a contract for one year, with an option for an additional season. Al Fateh is strengthening its squad, especially goalkeeping, for the new Saudi Pro League season.

PACHECO’S RECENT CAREER

Pacheco joined Espanyol from Almería in January 2023 and was part of the squad for the 2024/25 season. However, his appearances became limited as the club gave more playing time to Joan Garcia, who has since joined Barcelona. Throughout his career, Pacheco has played over 300 senior games, including long spells at Alavés and Real Madrid. He also represented Spain at the youth level. As a free agent, he provides Al Fateh with valuable experience and leadership.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR AL FATEH AND PACHECO?

Al Fateh finished in mid-table last season in the Saudi Pro League and aims to improve its performance in the upcoming season, which restarts on September 21. Signing Pacheco will help stabilize their defense for what promises to be a challenging season. Al Fateh will start their new league campaign next weekend against Abha, a team that narrowly avoided relegation the previous year. With only a few points separating mid-table teams, securing a solid goalkeeper could make a crucial difference as Al Fateh targets a top-half finish. For Pacheco, this move represents a new chapter, allowing him to compete in a different league and environment while offering his experience to Al Fateh’s squad.