Gabri Veiga

Gabriel Veiga Novas (born 27 May 2002) is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a central midfielder for Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli.

Veiga was born in O Porriño, Pontevedra, Galicia, and was a RC Celta de Vigo youth graduate.

He made his senior debut with the reserves at the age of 17 on 25 August 2019, starting in a 2–2 Segunda División B away draw against Internacional de Madrid.

Veiga scored his first goal on 1 December 2019, netting the opener in a 1–6 loss at CD Atlético Baleares.

He made his first team – and La Liga – debut on 19 September of the following year, coming on as a late substitute for Renato Tapia in a 2–1 home win against Valencia CF.

Veiga scored his first professional goal on 10 September 2022, but in a 4–1 away loss against Atlético Madrid.

The following 11 January, he was promoted to the main squad, being assigned the number 24 jersey.

Despite strong interest from top European clubs including Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Napoli, on 26 August 2023, Veiga joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli, signing a three-year deal, after activating his €40m release clause.

Veiga's decision to reject interest from European clubs in favour of the lucrative contract offer from Saudi Arabia drew criticism from fans, media and fellow players for a perceived lack of sporting ambition.

Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos labelled the move as "embarrassing".

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