Yacine Adli Completes Move To Al Shabab From AC Milan

Yacine Adli has joined Al Shabab from AC Milan in a deal worth about €7 million, including add-ons. This move marks the end of Adli’s two-year stay with Milan, as he is now part of the Saudi Pro League.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Adli, a French-Algerian midfielder, signed a long-term contract with Al Shabab until 2028. His agency, SEG, helped finalize the deal. Adli made 39 appearances for Milan, scoring one goal and providing two assists during his tenure. Last season, he spent time on loan at Fiorentina, where he had a successful stint with five goals and seven assists. However, after returning to Milan, he found himself outside of the team’s plans under new manager Massimiliano Allegri. The move to the Saudi Pro League offers him an opportunity to play more and rejuvenate his career. For more details, see the announcement about Adli’s move here.

WHY ADLI LEFT MILAN

Adli’s impressive performances during his loan at Fiorentina were not enough to secure a place in coach Allegri’s plans at Milan, which ultimately led to his transfer. Notably, Milan has found space in their squad with Adli’s departure, which highlights their shift in strategy. Reports indicate that Adli will earn nearly three times his salary at Milan, making between €6-7 million per season until June 2028. This transfer also provides Milan with a small financial profit after his four years at the club. As per sources, Adli’s exclusion from the squad was clear when he was set to join Milan Futuro for the 2025-26 season, making playing opportunities limited under Allegri’s plans according to recent updates.

WHAT COMES NEXT FOR ADLI AND THE CLUBS

Al Shabab hopes that Adli’s addition will significantly enhance their midfield capabilities, especially as they aim for improvement following a mid-table finish last season in the Saudi Pro League. Their next game is against Al Taawoun, who finished just above them. Meanwhile, AC Milan has had mixed results in their Serie A campaign and currently sits mid-table, facing Bologna next as they look to close the gap on title contenders. For Adli, this transfer symbolizes a new chapter in his career, as the Saudi league draws increasing interest from European talent, and many will be keen to see how he develops into a critical player within Saudi football.