Al Shabab welcomed a lauded Europa League winning hero into the fold on Thursday when Ever Banega landed in Riyadh.

Headlines were made across the globe last January when a lucrative three-year contract was inked to capture the Argentina maestro on a free transfer, upon the expiry of his ties to Sevilla. Coronavirus’ outbreak across the globe, however, saw 2019/20 extended in most regions, meaning play only finished in the Saudi Professional League last week and his former employers landed Europe’s second-biggest club trophy late last month with victory against Inter Milan.

The 32-year-old centre midfielder will now undergo home quarantine for three days, pending the result of a coronavirus test, in the Kingdom’s capital after he finally arrived at King Khalid International Airport during the early hours. Lithuania goalkeeper Giedrius Arlauskis – another freebie, this time from Romania’s CFR Cluj – is also experiencing the same medical protocol.

Shabab finished a distant seventh last term. Former Rangers coach Pedro Caixinha recommenced first-team training on Thursday, ahead of October 16’s delayed kick-off for 2020/21.

Shabab haven’t featured in the AFC Champions League since 2015 and lifted their sixth SPL crown in 2011/12.