Shielding the Star: Ittihad Jeddah Re-signs Danilo Pereira to Foil Benzema Return
11 February 2026
Ittihad Jeddah is taking proactive steps to prevent a Benzema-style departure by locking in their star, Danilo Pereira, on a new deal.
Background
Following Karim Benzema’s winter exit to Al Hilal on a free transfer, the club is keen to avoid a similar scenario with their captain. Renewing Pereira’s contract is seen as a move to solidify the squad’s core ahead of the new season.
Renewal Details
Portuguese defender Danilo Pereira reportedly renewed his contract with the Tigers, with the deal running through the end of this season and the potential for an additional extension. The report, drawn from A Bola and echoed by Asharq Al-Awsat, notes that the renewal was completed last week.
His current agreement was set to expire at the end of the campaign, and there had been chatter about delays in finalizing his renewal in recent days.
The Saudi press outlet confirms that Pereira signed through next season, with an option to extend for another year, preserving Ittihad’s defensive spine for the near future.
What Comes Next
Asharq Al-Awsat adds that an official public announcement is expected in the following hours. Pereira joined Ittihad in the summer of 2024 and has been instrumental in guiding the club to both the Saudi Pro League title and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup.
In short, the renewal is designed to keep the team competitive and cohesive as the transfer window oscillates between drama and hype.
And just in case you’re wondering about the vibe, let’s be honest: if football contracts could date, Pereira just swiped right on Ittihad again—and likely blocked the ex from crashing the party.
Final punchline time: if deals were stand-up routines, Pereira’s renewal would close with a wink and a mic drop—because nothing says “we’ve got this” like a contract that sticks around longer than a coffee break at training.
