Big-name transfers are causing a stir in the Saudi Pro League as star players from around the world join clubs in the Kingdom. This summer transfer window has seen a flurry of player and managerial signings, with many more expected to follow.
The impressive performance of home-grown talent from the Saudi Pro League during the Qatar World Cup, where they shocked eventual champions Argentina, is a testament to the competitiveness of the league. Additionally, the fact that the Saudi national team has qualified for the World Cup six times since 1994 further demonstrates the league’s quality.
The arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo, a legendary figure in the world of football, from Manchester United was a major coup for the Saudi Pro League. His move opened the floodgates for other top stars to join. Karim Benzema, a French star from Real Madrid, followed Ronaldo’s footsteps, as did his compatriot N’Golo Kante from Chelsea. Furthermore, Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has taken up a managerial position at Al Ettifaq.
Since then, the league has witnessed a series of high-profile signings, with many more on the horizon in the current transfer window. In the month alone, seven notable transfers have taken place, the latest being Riyad Mahrez’s move to Al Ahli from Manchester City, the reigning Champions League and Premier League champions. Mahrez, Algeria’s captain, enjoyed five successful seasons with Manchester City, winning numerous titles including the Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup, and the coveted Champions League.
Joining Mahrez at Al Ahli is Roberto Firmino, who previously played for Liverpool. Firmino’s tenure at Liverpool saw him make 362 appearances, score 111 goals, and provide 79 assists over eight seasons. His arrival on a free transfer is expected to bolster Al Ahli’s chances of returning to their winning ways in the Saudi Pro League.
Another Brazilian player making waves in the Saudi Pro League is Alex Telles. He recently joined Al Nassr alongside Ronaldo after being released by Manchester United, where he spent a season on loan at Sevilla.
The Croatian midfielder Marcelo Brozovic is another significant addition to Al Nassr. A key member of Croatia’s 2018 World Cup runners-up squad, Brozovic transferred to Al Nassr in a deal worth $19.6 million after spending eight years in Italy with Inter Milan.
Al Hilal, one of the heavyweight clubs in Saudi Arabia, secured the signing of Serbian international Sergej Milinkovic-Savic from Serie A club Lazio for a transfer fee of $44.6 million. Milinkovic-Savic, who won the Coppa Italia and the Supercoppa Italiana with Lazio, is expected to make a significant impact on Al Hilal’s fortunes.
Frenchman Samir Nasri, who previously played for Manchester City and Lens, has joined Al Nassr for a transfer fee of $27.8 million. Nasri’s experience and skills are set to strengthen Al Nassr’s squad in their pursuit of success.
Lastly, Portuguese talent Jota has made a move to Al Ittihad from Scottish club Celtic for a transfer fee of $31.7 million. The 24-year-old forward, who started his career with Benfica, is ready to contribute to Al Ittihad’s ambitions in the Saudi Pro League.
The influx of these world-class players to the Saudi Pro League not only raises the profile and competitiveness of the league but also adds excitement and intrigue for football fans in Saudi Arabia and beyond. The league is clearly making significant strides to attract top talent and enhance its reputation on the global stage.
As the summer transfer window continues, football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate further blockbuster signings in the Saudi Pro League, signaling the league’s continued growth and potential for greater success in the future.
