Former Manchester United defender Chris Smalling had a nightmare start to his new life in the Saudi Pro League.
The 34-year-old scored an own goal and also saw red in his first outing as a Al-Fayha player.
Just six minutes into his debut, Smalling found the back of his own net after the defender diverted the ball into the goal from a low cross which was whipped into the six-yard box.
The day went from bad to worse for Smalling and his teammate as they would go on to concede two more times before the half-time whistle was blown.
Not to think matters could get any worse, just 10 minutes into the second half, Smalling was sent off in the 55th minute for a straight card offence.
Chris Smalling had a nightmare start to life in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Fayha
Down a man with over a half hour still left to play, Al-Fayha conceded another two goals, with the game ending up 5-0 in favour of their opponents Al-Raed.
The 5-0 thumping was the club’s worst ever defeat in the league, making it a match and debut to forget for the former England international.
Smalling joined the Saudi Pro League club Al-Fayha on a two-year deal from Roma during this summer’s transfer window.
After leaving Manchester United for Roma back in 2019, Smalling thrived in the Italian league with Roma, playing 155 times for the Italian outfit, scoring 10 goals.
Smalling played for the Red Devils from 2010 until 2020
Smalling joined the Saudi Pro League club Al-Fayha on a two-year deal from Roma
Smalling played 155 times for the Italian outfit, scoring 10 goals during his five years
Following his decision to leave and join the Saudi side Smalling penned an emotional message to the Roma supporters.
‘When we arrived in Rome in 2019, my family and I were greeted with kindness and warmth. You immediately made me feel at home in Rome. With the birth of my son, the city will forever have a special place in my heart,’ Smalling wrote on Instagram.
‘But all the good stories are bound to end and it’s time for me to let go. My love and admiration for AS Roma will remain forever.
‘To the football players I’ve shared the locker room and the field with, to the coaches I’ve played with, to all the staff who work behind the scenes whose work often goes unnoticed, and to you the fans, THANK YOU SO MUCH: it has been an absolute honor. Good luck for the rest of the season.’