1. Overview
Ali Adnan Kadhim Nasser Al-Tameemi (علي عدنان كاظم ناصر التميميAli Adnan Kadhim Nasser Al-TameemiArabic; born 19 December 1993), commonly known as Ali Adnan, is an Iraqi professional footballer who plays primarily as a left-back for Saudi First Division League club Al-Najma and the Iraq national team. Adnan is widely regarded as one of Iraq's most prominent football talents, earning nicknames such as "Iraq's Roberto Carlos" and "Asia's Gareth Bale" due to his powerful left foot, attacking prowess, and set-piece ability. His career has seen him achieve several milestones, including becoming the first Iraqi player to compete in Serie A with Udinese. He gained international recognition for his stellar performances at the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup, where he led Iraq to the semi-finals and was subsequently named the Asian Young Footballer of the Year in 2013. Adnan's journey from the prestigious Ammo Baba Football School to a national icon highlights his significant impact on Iraqi football and his role in inspiring young athletes.
2. Personal Life
Ali Adnan's personal life and family background have significantly shaped his football journey, marked by strong familial ties and early foundational training.
2.1. Childhood and Education
Adnan was born in the Iraqi capital Baghdad, specifically in the Adhamiyah vicinity, on 19 December 1993. It has been reported in some media outlets that his actual birth year might be 1991. Football is deeply ingrained in his family, with both his father, Adnan Kadhim, and his uncle, Ali Kadhim, having played at a high level during the 1970s and 1980s. His father, Adnan Kadhim, was a notable player for the Iraqi youth team in 1977, achieving victory in the 1977 AFC Youth Championship held in Iran and participating in the 1977 FIFA World Youth Championship in Tunisia that same year. Despite playing for first-division clubs such as Al-Shabab, Al-Tijara, and Al-Rasheed, his father never made the transition to the senior international team. Adnan's uncle, Ali Kadhim, is considered one of the best strikers in the history of the Iraqi national team, having scored 35 goals for the national team between 1970 and 1980, a record that stood until it was surpassed by Hussein Saeed in 1982. Ali Adnan regards his father as both his idol and his teacher in life and sport, with his father often seen watching his son from the sidelines at the Baghdad stadium.
Adnan's foundational football education began at the prestigious Ammo Baba Football School, located opposite the Al-Shaab Stadium. He spent five formative years at the school, where he excelled and progressed through the "Baraem" (Buds) and "Ashbal" (Cubs) teams, despite being one of the youngest students. He views his time at the school as a crucial part of his development and an important foundation for his career. He later became the first graduate from Ammo Baba's football school to play for the senior national team, just eleven years after the school's establishment. This strong familial bond was evident when Adnan announced his shock retirement from international football in 2016; his father called him live on air during a popular Iraqi football talk show and successfully persuaded him to reverse his decision, leading to Adnan's return to the national team.
2.2. Early Career
Following his time at the Ammo Baba Football School, Adnan moved to Al-Zawraa, one of Iraq's top clubs known for having one of the best youth development setups in the country. This club also held significance as his uncle's former team. He played at the Nasha'een (Under 17) level before progressing to the youth team. After spending a season in the youth team at city rivals Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya, he transferred to Baghdad FC.
3. Major Activities and Achievements
Ali Adnan's professional career spans several clubs across different leagues and continents, marked by significant performances and milestones, alongside a distinguished international career at various levels for Iraq.
3.1. Club Career
Adnan's club career began in Iraq before he made notable moves to European and North American leagues, becoming a pioneering figure for Iraqi footballers.
3.1.1. Baghdad FC
At Baghdad FC, Ali Adnan initially joined the youth side before being invited to the senior team by head coach Yahya Alwan. However, due to the squad's depth and his relatively young age, he returned to the youth setup. It was under Karim Kurdi, who was appointed head coach in 2010, that Adnan secured a regular place with the senior team. Kurdi's coaching instilled confidence in the attacking left-sided player, allowing Adnan to flourish. He eventually dislodged his idol and teammate, Iraqi international Bassim Abbas, from the left flank, first at the club level and then with the national team. During his tenure at Baghdad FC, Adnan scored a total of seven goals: two in the 2010-11 season (against Naft Maysan and Al-Hasanain), three in the 2011-12 season (two against Kirkuk FC and one against Al-Sinaa), and two in the 2012-13 season (against Al-Minaa and Al-Kahraba). In the 2013 winter transfer window, Adnan received an offer from Saudi club Ittihad FC to replace Croatian player Anas Sharbini. However, the deal fell through because his agent was unable to complete the transfer due to visa acquisition issues, which would have taken two days, exceeding the one-day remaining in the transfer window.
3.1.2. Çaykur Rizespor
On 1 August 2013, Ali Adnan officially signed a five-year contract with Turkish club Çaykur Rizespor for a transfer fee of approximately 650.00 K USD. He chose the shirt number 53, aligning it with the club's establishment year of 1953, stating that he felt Çaykur Rizespor was like his home. On 1 September 2013, Adnan scored his first goal in the Turkish Süper Lig for Çaykur Rizespor against Kayseri Erciyesspor in the 7th minute with a long-distance strike. On 14 September 2013, he scored his second goal against Gaziantepspor from a free kick taken from 115 ft (35 m). Adnan contributed significantly to his team, providing 10 assists during his time at the club. His performances and playing style quickly made him a fan favorite. On 2 September 2013, Napoli submitted a 7.00 M EUR transfer bid for Adnan on a five-year deal, but it was rejected by Çaykur Rizespor's board of directors. The following season (2014-15), Adnan saw limited playing time, often being a bench player or out of the squad, leading to his eventual move to Italy. During his time at Çaykur Rizespor, he was also linked with other major European clubs such as Sevilla, Arsenal, Galatasaray, Bursaspor, Genoa, Livorno, and Qatari club Al-Gharrafa. In June 2014, he was also linked with AS Roma and Chelsea.
3.1.3. Udinese Calcio
On 1 July 2015, Adnan was announced as Udinese's new signing, penning a five-year contract. This historic move made Adnan the first Iraqi player ever to play in the Serie A. He made his competitive debut for the club in a 3-1 victory against Novara in the Coppa Italia. His Serie A debut followed in a 1-0 away win against defending champions Juventus. Adnan scored his first goal for Udinese from a free kick against Genoa, though the game ended in a 2-1 defeat for his side. He quickly became a fan favorite at Udinese and consistently impressed with his performances. Despite an impressive debut season in Serie A, his opportunities became limited in his second season following the arrival of a new manager, leading to speculation about potential moves away from the Italian club. Although his playing time was restricted, Adnan continued to impress whenever he took to the field, largely being utilized as a bench player.
3.1.4. Atalanta B.C. (loan)
On 17 August 2018, Adnan joined Atalanta on a season-long loan as part of a deal that saw Marco D'Alessandro move in the opposite direction. However, following a dispute with manager Gian Piero Gasperini, Adnan was informed that he would not be part of the manager's plans for the season. As this dispute occurred after the winter transfer market had closed, he was compelled to seek a move to a league outside Europe to ensure continued playing time until the end of the season.
3.1.5. Vancouver Whitecaps FC
On 9 March 2019, Vancouver Whitecaps FC of Major League Soccer announced that they had secured a loan deal for Ali Adnan until the end of June. His transfer was subsequently made permanent in July 2019. On 3 July 2021, Whitecaps FC and Adnan mutually agreed to terminate his contract due to complications with his visa.
3.1.6. Vejle Boldklub
On 5 November 2021, after being without a club for four months, Ali Adnan officially signed with Danish club Vejle Boldklub. However, less than a month after his arrival, Adnan suffered a serious knee injury, tearing one of the cruciate ligaments in his knee, which ruled him out for the remainder of the season. In May 2022, Vejle Boldklub confirmed that Adnan would be leaving the club as his contract had expired.
3.1.7. FC Rubin Kazan
On 11 August 2022, Russian First League side Rubin Kazan announced the signing of Ali Adnan, following several weeks during which he had trained with the club. He remained with Rubin Kazan until June 2023, when his contract expired. During his time with the club, Rubin Kazan won the 2022-23 Russian First League title.
3.1.8. Mes Rafsanjan F.C.
Following his departure from Rubin Kazan, Adnan played for Mes Rafsanjan F.C. in the Persian Gulf Pro League, making 13 appearances during the 2023-24 season.
3.1.9. Al-Najma SC
On 19 July 2024, Ali Adnan joined Saudi First Division League club Al-Najma, marking his return to West Asia.
3.2. International Career
Ali Adnan has represented Iraq at various youth and senior levels, playing a pivotal role in several significant tournaments.
3.2.1. Iraq U-20
Adnan's exceptional and electrifying performances were a major highlight of the Iraq U-20's remarkable run to the semi-finals at the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Turkey. His goal against England U-20, which leveled the score at 2-2, exemplified his relentless dynamism and drive. In the 93rd minute of that match, he skillfully cut inside from the by-line, outmaneuvering the opposition with his trickery, before darting past the English defense and unleashing a powerful shot past the goalkeeper. His eagerness to make marauding runs down the flank, his ability to strike the ball with ferocity and accuracy from outside the penalty box, and his overall physical superiority over his competitors captured the attention of observers throughout the tournament. Rumors circulated that scouts from top European leagues were closely monitoring the 19-year-old. He also scored the opening goal in the semi-finals against Uruguay U-20 from a narrow-angle free-kick in a match that ended 1-1 after extra time, with Uruguay ultimately advancing to the final via a penalty shootout. His outstanding displays led to him being named the Asian Young Footballer of the Year in 2013. Additionally, he was part of the Iraq U-20 team that finished as runner-up in the 2012 AFC U-19 Championship.
3.2.2. Iraq U-23
Adnan was selected as part of the Olympic team squad that represented Iraq in the Rio Olympics 2016. He played a crucial role in the games, creating many scoring opportunities, and was named Man of the Match against Denmark. However, after Iraq's 1-1 draw with South Africa (a match in which Adnan provided an assist), Iraq finished with only three points, placing third in their group behind Brazil and Denmark. This result led to Iraq's elimination from the Rio Olympics in the group stage. Following the Olympics, Adnan controversially announced his retirement from international football via Twitter. This announcement shocked many Iraqis and was met with widespread criticism and pleas for his return. In a video posted to Twitter, Adnan stated he would not play for Iraq at any level and was putting an "X" on his international career. The decision was reportedly influenced by criticism directed at the Iraqi Olympic team after their performance in Brazil. Following his retirement, Adnan's father, Adnan Kadhim, appeared on a popular Iraqi football talk show and spoke to Ali live on air, in front of millions of viewers, urging him to reconsider his decision. Adnan eventually reversed his decision and returned to play for Iraq. He also earned a bronze medal with the Iraq U-23 team at the 2014 Asian Games.
3.2.3. Iraq Senior Team
Ali Adnan made his debut for the Iraq senior national team on 3 December 2012, at the age of 18, in a friendly match against Bahrain in Doha. This made him the first graduate from the Ammo Baba Football School to play for the senior team, just eleven years after the school's founding. Adnan had not been selected by the previous Brazilian coach Zico, but after Zico's departure due to a dispute over unpaid wages, Hakim Shaker, Adnan's youth coach, was appointed to lead the senior side. Shaker's first decision was to call up the left-back for the Bahrain game. Adnan's performances, particularly at the 2012 WAFF Championship, solidified his position as the country's best left-back, earning widespread praise. He scored his first goal for the Iraq national team in a 3-1 victory over China PR during 2015 AFC Asian Cup qualification. He participated in the 2015 AFC Asian Cup, contributing to Iraq's fourth-place finish, their best result since winning the tournament in 2007. Adnan has also been a key player in FIFA World Cup qualification campaigns and the AFC Asian Cup. He was part of the team that finished as runner-up in the 2012 WAFF Championship and the 2013 Arabian Gulf Cup.
4. Style of Play
Ali Adnan is a left-back renowned for his dynamic and attacking style of play, often drawing comparisons to legendary footballers like Roberto Carlos and Ian Harte due to his ferocious set-piece accuracy. Turkish media have also dubbed him "Asia's Gareth Bale" or "Gareth Bale's reincarnation," highlighting his similar attributes. He possesses a unique blend of physical presence and speed, making him an ideal fit for Iraq's counter-attacking philosophy.
Adnan is characterized by his strong physique and a powerful long-range shooting ability. He frequently makes marauding runs from the defensive line straight into the opposition's half, utilizing sublime footwork to effortlessly bypass defenders and midfielders. His game is marked by boundless energy and exceptional athleticism, coupled with unrivaled strength, making him a formidable opponent. He is often seen in the attacking third of the field, entertaining spectators with dazzling skills and powerful shots from long distances. Despite his significant attacking contributions and flair for scoring crucial goals, Adnan also serves as a reliable defensive pillar for his team. He is adept at delivering precise long passes and crosses into the penalty area, further enhancing his versatility as a left-sided player. His comprehensive skill set, combining offensive threat with defensive solidity, has led many to consider him a future star of Iraqi football.
5. Statistics
This section provides a detailed overview of Ali Adnan's career statistics, including his appearances and goals at both club and international levels.
5.1. Club
| Club | Season | League | Cup | Continental | Other | Total | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Division | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | ||
| Çaykur Rizespor | 2013-14 | Süper Lig | 31 | 3 | - | - | - | 31 | 3 | |||
| 2014-15 | 10 | 0 | 6 | 1 | - | - | 16 | 1 | ||||
| Total | 41 | 3 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 47 | 4 | ||
| Udinese | 2015-16 | Serie A | 28 | 1 | 3 | 0 | - | - | 31 | 1 | ||
| 2016-17 | 14 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - | - | 14 | 0 | ||||
| 2017-18 | 23 | 0 | 1 | 0 | - | - | 24 | 0 | ||||
| 2018-19 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | - | - | 1 | 0 | ||||
| Total | 65 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 70 | 1 | ||
| Atalanta (loan) | 2018-19 | Serie A | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | - | 4 | 0 | |
| Vancouver Whitecaps FC | 2019-20 | MLS | 28 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 30 | 1 |
| 2020-21 | 23 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 26 | 3 | ||
| Total | 51 | 3 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 56 | 4 | ||
| Vejle Boldklub | 2021-22 | Danish 1st Division | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Rubin Kazan | 2022-23 | Russian First League | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 9 | 2 |
| Mes Rafsanjan | 2023-24 | Persian Gulf Pro League | 13 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 13 | 0 |
| Career total | 181 | 7 | 16 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 198 | 9 | ||
5.2. International Goals
His international goals for the senior team include:
| # | Date | Venue | Opponent | Score | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 5 March 2014 | Sharjah Stadium, Dubai, United Arab Emirates | China PR | 3-0 | 3-1 | 2015 AFC Asian Cup qualification |
| 2 | 3 September 2015 | Shahid Dastgerdi Stadium, Tehran, Iran | Chinese Taipei | 1-0 | 5-1 | 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification |
| 3 | 24 March 2016 | Shahid Dastgerdi Stadium, Tehran, Iran | Thailand | 2-2 | 2-2 | 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification |
| 4 | 8 January 2019 | Zayed Sports City Stadium, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates | Vietnam | 3-2 | 3-2 | 2019 AFC Asian Cup |
| 5 | 10 October 2019 | Basra Sports City, Basra, Iraq | Hong Kong | 2-0 | 2-0 | 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification |
| 6 | 17 November 2020 | Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum Stadium, Dubai, United Arab Emirates | Uzbekistan | 2-1 | 2-1 | Friendly |
| 7 | 7 June 2021 | Al Muharraq Stadium, Arad, Bahrain | Cambodia | 3-0 | 4-1 | 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification |
6. Awards and Honors
Ali Adnan has accumulated several individual accolades and team honors throughout his career at both club and international levels.
Club
- Russian First League: 2022-23 (with Rubin Kazan)
International
- AFC U-19 Championship runner-up: 2012 (with Iraq U-20)
- FIFA U-20 World Cup 4th-place: 2013 (with Iraq U-20)
- Asian Games bronze-medal: 2014 (with Iraq U-23)
- WAFF Championship runner-up: 2012 (with Iraq)
- Arabian Gulf Cup runner-up: 2013 (with Iraq)
- AFC Asian Cup fourth-place: 2015 (with Iraq)
Individual
- Asian Young Footballer of the Year: 2013
- 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup XI Team of the Tournament - Left-back position (selected by Sky Sports)
- World Soccer Magazine's 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup Top 10 stars of the Tournament
- Goal.com's 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup chosen among best top 10 players
- Soccer Iraq Team of the Decade: 2010-2019
- Daily Mail's 2014 Top 20 best young stars in Europe