The rise of the Saudi Pro League has seen a number of high profile (and some less high profile) names make the jump from the glitz and glam of the Premier League to the riches of Saudi Arabia. But, the question becomes, how has this worked out for the players who have made the move? In this article, we will be looking at some of the biggest moves made and how the player has fared since.
How Have Former Premier League Players in Saudi Pro League Done
Cristiano Ronaldo
The legendary attacker ended his fairytale return to Manchester United with a somewhat controversial exit to join Al Nassr, becoming one of the biggest names to join the Saudi league. Since then, the Portuguese attacker has reinforced his reputation as one of the game’s greatest goal scorers.
Despite being two decades into his career, the former Real Madrid man has been unstoppable since moving to Al Nassr. He has managed to average almost a goal every game, netting 96 times in 105 appearances. His body has held up pretty well, allowing him to stay on the pitch regularly, even managing to play 51 times last term.
Being known for his media-friendly personality, he’s been seen relishing in the Dubai night life. From Dubai luxury car rentals to photo-ops on impressive yachts, Ronald remains a staple in the Saudi Arabian league this season.
Ivan Toney
After being linked to major English sides for most of his peak with Brentford, the English attacker made the decision to move to Saudi Arabia in January when he joined Al-Ahli in a premium move. The striker, who was prolific for the Bees and helped fire them to a solid Premier League spot, has unsurprisingly made the move to a new league very well.
Across all competitions, he has contributed 28 goal contributions in 34 appearances, averaging a goal every 119 minutes so far. While he is still new to the league, Toney appears to be the next in the line of successful moves from England’s top division to the burgeoning league.
Alexander Mitrovic
One of the most successful moves was also one of the early adopters. After impressing for Fulham, the Serbian moved to Al-Hilal for the 2023/24 campaign. He has been setting the league alight and has collected a number of honours since then. His 61 goals in 70 appearances is incredibly prolific.
In addition, he has been named the top scorer of the King’s Cup and has won four trophies since making the switch, including the Saudi Pro League itself, the aforementioned King’s Cup, and two Saudi Super Cup wins.
Edouard Mendy
After being a huge part of Chelsea’s Champions League win the goalkeeper found himself on the outs at the club and made the move to Saudi side Al-Ahli. He has been their number one goalkeeper ever since and has been imperious in goal, while that hasn’t resulted in any silverware just yet, Mendy is a wall in the net that has kept their defence as one of the strongest in Saudi Arabia.
N’Golo Kante
Another player who left the Blues after capturing the Champions League, the French midfielder was offered a great deal to make the move to Al-Ittihad. While his first term didn’t end in glory, the current campaign looks set to end with his side capturing the league title.
With only two defeats in the competition and the second-best defence in the competition, the veteran midfielder continues to be an engine for winning. Kante’s defensive capabilities are a major part of Al-Ittihad’s excellent goal difference, while his on-ball abilities have seen him make five assists in the league.
Main photo credit: IMAGO / ABACAPRESS
