The 2025/26 season represents a definitive chapter in the professional trajectory of Roger Ibañez, establishing him as a pivotal figure in the Saudi Pro League’s defensive landscape.
Since joining Al-Ahli on August 10, 2023, the Brazilian centre-back has transitioned from a promising talent in European football to an indispensable anchor in Jeddah.
His contract, which extends through June 30, 2027, underscores the club’s long-term commitment to maintaining a world-class defensive foundation.
Core Profile and Market Valuation
As of late 2025, Roger Ibañez remains one of the most valuable defensive assets in Asian football. His physical profile and international pedigree provide a level of reliability that is essential for a club competing across multiple domestic and continental fronts.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Roger Ibañez da Silva |
| Date of Birth | November 23, 1998 (Age: 27) |
| Citizenship | Brazil |
| Height | 1.85 m |
| Primary Position | Centre-Back |
| Current Club | Al-Ahli (Saudi Pro League) |
| Market Value | €17.00 million (Dec 18, 2025) |
| Contract Expiration | June 30, 2027 |
2025/26 Competitive Performance Breakdown
The 2025/26 campaign was a marathon for Ibañez, characterized by heavy usage and high-stakes involvement across five distinct competitions. His durability is evidenced by a total of 4,031 minutes played across 45 appearances.
This volume of play indicates his status as a “first-name-on-the-teamsheet” player for Al-Ahli management.
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saudi Pro League | 27 | 2 | 2 | 2,336′ |
| AFC Champions League | 11 | 1 | 0 | 1,005′ |
| King’s Cup | 4 | 1 | 0 | 420′ |
| Saudi Super Cup | 2 | 0 | 0 | 180′ |
| FIFA Intercontinental Cup | 1 | 0 | 0 | 90′ |
| Total 2025/26 Campaign | 45 | 4 | 3 | 4,031′ |
The Offensive Utility of a Modern Centre-Back
In modern football, a centre-back’s value is increasingly measured by their ability to influence the game in the final third. Ibañez has excelled in this regard during the 2025/26 season, providing a significant goal-scoring threat and playmaking capability from the back.
- Goal Involvements: With 4 goals and 3 assists, Ibañez contributed directly to 7 goals this season. For a dedicated centre-back, these figures represent elite-level offensive output.
- Consistency: His two goals and two assists in the Saudi Pro League show a player who is integrated into the team’s set-piece strategies and build-up play.
- Continental Impact: His goal in the AFC Champions League was crucial for Al-Ahli’s aspirations on the broader stage, demonstrating he can perform against the best clubs in Asia.
Defensive Discipline and Aggression Profile
Maintaining a physical presence in the Saudi Pro League requires a high degree of defensive aggression. Ibañez’s disciplinary record reflects a player who is frequently engaged in high-intensity duels and professional interventions.
| Metric | Count |
|---|---|
| Yellow Cards | 7 |
| Double Yellow Cards | 1 |
| Direct Red Cards | 1 |
While the disciplinary numbers suggest a rugged style of play, the context of playing 4,031 minutes helps mitigate these figures.
A direct red card and a double yellow across 45 matches suggest occasional lapses in discipline, yet they also point to a defender willing to take strategic risks to prevent clear goal-scoring opportunities.
International Standing and National Team Integration
Despite the move away from European leagues, Ibañez has maintained a presence within the Brazilian national team setup. This international relevance is a key indicator of his continued high level of performance.
- National Team Status: Current international for Brazil.
- Caps: He has earned 5 caps for the senior Brazilian squad.
- History: His debut for the national team occurred on September 26, 2022.
- Development Path: Prior to the senior team, Ibañez gained experience with the Brazil U23 and Olympic squads, earning 6 appearances at the U23 level.
Strategic Tactical Analysis: Position and Role
Throughout the 2025/26 season, Ibañez was deployed exclusively as a Centre-Back (CB). In all 45 of his appearances, he filled this role, providing a stable partnership for the Al-Ahli backline.
| Tactical Role | Deployment Frequency | Key Functions |
|---|---|---|
| Ball-Playing Defender | High | Initiating attacks from deep; 3 assists in 25/26. |
| Set-Piece Threat | High | Utilizing his 1.85m height to secure 4 goals. |
| Defensive Anchor | Constant | Playing nearly 100% of available minutes in key tournaments. |
Future Outlook: Toward 2027
As Al-Ahli continues its pursuit of domestic dominance and continental silverware, Roger Ibañez remains a cornerstone of the project. His age (27) places him at the peak of his physical and mental capabilities as a defender.
The stability of his contract situation ensures that Al-Ahli possesses a foundational piece for their defense for at least the next two seasons.
Key Strategic Takeaways:
- Consistency is Paramount: Completing over 4,000 minutes in a single season is a testament to his fitness and importance.
- Value Retention: At a €17 million valuation, he remains a high-value asset for the club, balancing the initial investment with consistent on-field performance.
- Dual-Threat Capability: His 7 total goal involvements make him one of the most dangerous defenders in the league during set-pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Roger Ibañez’s current contract status?
He is currently under contract with Al-Ahli until June 30, 2027, having joined the club in August 2023.
How many goals did Roger Ibañez score in the 2025/26 season?
Ibañez scored a total of 4 goals across all competitions: 2 in the Saudi Pro League, 1 in the AFC Champions League, and 1 in the King’s Cup.
What is the current market value of Roger Ibañez?
As of December 18, 2025, his market value is estimated at €17.00 million.
Does Roger Ibañez play for the Brazilian national team?
Yes, he is a current international for Brazil with 5 caps to his name.
In which position does Roger Ibañez primarily play?
He plays exclusively as a Centre-Back (CB).
