A New Chapter in Saudi Arabia
Douglas Costa has officially left Chievo to join Saudi Arabian side Al Ittifaq, the club confirmed on Friday. The 35-year-old winger departs the Serie D club after a brief stint, embarking on a fresh challenge in the Saudi Pro League where he will team up with another familiar face from Italian football, Mario Balotelli.
The move brings together two players who, despite never sharing a dressing room in Serie A, are both etched in the memories of calcio fans. Costa, once a dynamic force at Juventus, joins a growing list of high-profile names attracted to the Middle East, with Al Ittifaq looking to build a competitive squad under the guidance of manager Steven Gerrard.
From Juventus to Chievo: Costa’s Rollercoaster Journey
Costa’s career has taken some unexpected turns since leaving Juventus in 2020. After a successful three-year spell in Turin, where he won three Serie A titles and became known for his explosive pace and trickery, the Brazilian moved back to Bayern Munich on loan and then returned to his homeland with Grêmio. A subsequent stint at LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer followed, but it was his surprise switch to Chievo in 2024 that raised the most eyebrows.
The Verona-based club, refounded in Serie D after financial collapse, offered Costa a platform to rediscover his form. In Italy’s fourth tier, he brought moments of magic, contributing goals and assists that thrilled the small but passionate fanbase. Now, after less than two seasons, he moves on, leaving behind a club that appreciated his contribution during its rebuilding phase.
Balotelli Factor: Two Serie A Icons Reunite
The presence of Mario Balotelli at Al Ittifaq undoubtedly adds intrigue to Costa’s arrival. Balotelli, the former Inter, AC Milan, and Manchester City striker, has been with the Dammam-based club since 2023, and his experience in the Saudi Pro League has been a mix of spectacular goals and the occasional controversy that always seems to follow him. At 36, Balotelli remains a crowd-puller, and pairing him with Costa’s creativity could unlock defences in a league that continues to attract global attention.
Though they never played together at club level in Italy—Costa was a Juve player while Balotelli was starring for rivals—they share mutual respect and a common language of top-level European football. Their combined pedigree could prove a smart piece of business for Al Ittifaq, who are eager to compete with the league’s top sides.
What It Means for Al Ittifaq and Saudi Football
Al Ittifaq, under the ownership of the Ministry of Sport’s privatization project, have been ambitious in the transfer market but have lacked consistency on the pitch. The addition of Costa adds depth and experience to their attacking options, and his versatility—able to play on either wing or as an attacking midfielder—gives Gerrard tactical flexibility. With Balotelli leading the line, the club will hope to improve on mid-table finishes and challenge for a spot in Asian competition.
Saudi Arabia’s investment in football shows no signs of slowing down, and signing a player of Costa’s calibre reinforces the league’s appeal. While he may not be the force of his Juventus days, moments of brilliance are still within his repertoire, and the slower pace of the Pro League could suit his style.
“I’m excited for this new adventure and to play alongside a great striker like Mario,” Costa said in a club statement. “I want to help Al Ittifaq achieve its goals and bring joy to the fans.”
Key Takeaways
- Douglas Costa has completed a transfer from Serie D side Chievo to Al Ittifaq in the Saudi Pro League.
- The Brazilian winger will join forces with Italian striker Mario Balotelli, forming a high-profile attacking duo.
- Costa’s move ends a brief but memorable spell in Italy’s fourth tier, where he helped Chievo’s revival.
- The transfer highlights Saudi Arabia’s continued push to attract established European talent.
- Al Ittifaq hope the pair can elevate the club’s performances and push for a top-half finish.
Quick Facts
Player: Douglas Costa
Age: 35
Position: Winger / Attacking Midfielder
Previous Clubs: Grêmio, Shakhtar Donetsk, Bayern Munich, Juventus, LA Galaxy, Chievo
New Club: Al Ittifaq (Saudi Pro League)
Contract Length: Not disclosed
Notable Teammate: Mario Balotelli