Stefan Cleary Loaned to Beveren for Development

Al-Ittihad have signed off on a new adventure for Stefan Cleary, giving the young talent the green light to join Belgian side Beveren on loan until the end of the season.

The club, known as "The Dean", confirmed on Tuesday evening via their official X account that Beveren’s request had been approved, clearing the way for Cleary to leave "The Tigers" temporarily and try his luck on Belgian soil.

This is not a farewell. It is a calculated step.

Al-Ittihad want Cleary playing, not waiting. With fierce competition for places this season, the coaching staff and management see regular minutes elsewhere as the quickest route to his development. Beveren, battling in their own demanding environment, offer exactly that: a platform, not a bench.

The plan is straightforward. Cleary will stay with the Belgian club until the current campaign concludes, then return to Al-Ittihad once the season shuts down — unless new twists emerge over his future in the months ahead.

Before he left, the club’s hierarchy made their stance clear. They sent him off with a message of support, wishing him success in Belgium and expressing hope that he comes back sharper, more mature and armed with the experience that only consistent football can provide.

His move is part of a broader strategy. Al-Ittihad are reshaping and fine-tuning their squad, blending incoming signings with targeted loan exits. Some players arrive to lift the level immediately, others, like Cleary, are sent out to toughen up and return ready for the internal battle for places.

So Stefan Cleary steps away from Jeddah for now, bound for Beveren with the club’s blessing. A new league, a new challenge, and one clear objective: turn minutes into progress and return to Al-Ittihad ready to fight for a permanent place in "The Tigers" lineup.