From Neymar to Ronaldo, the 10 High-Profile Footballer Transfers to Saudi You Need to Know About
Summer 2023 top football signings to Saudi Arabia
The 2023 summer transfer window marked a momentous shift in the world of football with several renowned players opting for unexpected moves to Saudi Arabian clubs, enticed by the promise of substantial contracts. These remarkable signings bolstered the reputation of the Saudi Pro League and captured the attention and curiosity of the global football community. Let's find out about ten players who have embarked on an exciting journey to showcase their talents in the heart of the desert kingdom.
1. Aymeric Laporte – Al Nassr
Aymeric Laporte, the highly decorated French center-back, has made a significant move from Manchester City to Al Nassr in a transfer valued at $29.77 million. Laporte's illustrious career at City, where he collected numerous titles, including 13 major honors, has cemented his reputation as a serial winner. His arrival in the Saudi Pro League not only bolsters Al Nassr's defense but also adds a wealth of experience to the squad, complementing the star power of Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane.
2. Neymar – Al Hilal
Neymar, the illustrious Brazilian superstar, who once held the title of the world's most expensive player, recently bid farewell to PSG, making a high-profile move to Al Hilal for a substantial $175 million, per NBC Sports. His arrival in the vibrant city of Riyadh has injected a substantial dose of star power into the Saudi Pro League. Football enthusiasts across the globe are now eagerly anticipating the breathtaking displays and magical moments that Neymar is poised to deliver in the heart of Saudi Arabia.
3. Sadio Mane – Al Nassr
Sadio Mane, once a beloved figure at Liverpool, has found a new home at Al Nassr after a short spell with Bayern Munich. His transfer to the Saudi Pro League side for a fee of $30 million coupled with a staggering reported annual wage of $41 million has sent shockwaves through the footballing world. Mane's decision to join the growing list of stars in Saudi Arabia only adds to the intrigue surrounding the league, making him one of the highest-paid players in the sport.
4. Allan Saint-Maximin – Al Ahli
The dynamic French winger, Allan Saint-Maximin, made a thrilling move away from Newcastle, sealing a $30 million transfer to Al Ahli. This exciting switch saw him become an integral part of an electrifying attacking trio alongside Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino. Saint-Maximin's flair, pace, and creativity promise to ignite the Saudi Pro League with his mesmerizing skills. Football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the fireworks on the field as this formidable trio aims to dazzle fans and rewrite the league's history with their attacking prowess.
5. Riyad Mahrez – Al Ahli
Riyad Mahrez, celebrated for his mesmerizing skills on the pitch, made a significant move from Manchester City to Al Ahli for a substantial $38.7 million transfer fee, per ESPN. This high-profile transfer not only showcases Mahrez's exceptional talent but also enhances the Premier League's influence within the Saudi league. His arrival in Al Ahli promises to bring a wealth of experience and excitement, setting the stage for thrilling encounters and elevating the stature of Saudi Arabian football on the international stage.
6. Jordan Henderson – Al Ettifaq
In a poignant departure, Jordan Henderson, the former Liverpool captain bid farewell to his beloved club after an illustrious 12-year tenure. He embarked on a new chapter by joining Al Ettifaq where he reunites with the legendary Steven Gerrard. Reuters reports Henderson's $15.55 million transfer signifies a significant shift for both player and club. His experience and leadership qualities promise to make a profound impact in Saudi Arabia while Liverpool fans around the world will fondly remember his unwavering commitment to the Reds.
7. Fabinho – Al Ittihad
Fabinho, renowned as a pivotal midfielder during his tenure at Liverpool, made a significant transition to Saudi Arabia by inking a $51.33 million deal with Al Ittihad. This high-profile move not only bolsters Al Ittihad's roster but also amplifies the burgeoning appeal of the Saudi Pro League. Fabinho's decision to embrace this new chapter underscores the league's capacity to attract top-tier talent and signals its ambition to become a prominent destination for football stars seeking fresh challenges and substantial rewards.
8. Cristiano Ronaldo – Al Nassr
Cristiano Ronaldo's astounding departure from Manchester United sent shockwaves through the footballing world, as he made his way to Al Nassr, where he is poised to command an astonishing annual salary of $75 million and $207 million per season, per NBC Sports. This monumental transfer represents a historic turning point for the Saudi Pro League, elevating it to the global stage. Ronaldo's arrival not only showcases the league's financial muscle but also its ambition to attract top talent from around the world, promising an era of unmatched excitement and competition in Saudi Arabian football.
9. Karim Benzema – Al Ittihad
Karim Benzema, the recently crowned Ballon D'Or winner, made a momentous decision by opting to extend his illustrious career at Al Ittihad. This significant move marked the end of his remarkable 14-year tenure with Real Madrid. The French striker's decision to join the Saudi club by signing a deal worth more than $200 million, adds a new chapter to his storied career, promising to bring his exceptional skills and championship-winning experience to the burgeoning Saudi Pro League, per CNBC. Football enthusiasts worldwide eagerly anticipate his impact on the league's landscape.
10. Roberto Firmino – Al Ahli
Roberto Firmino, hailed as the highest-scoring Brazilian in Premier League history bid farewell to Liverpool after an illustrious eight-year spell. His arrival at Al Ahli is set to earn him an impressive $22 million per season. His crafty playmaking and goal-scoring prowess are anticipated to inject dynamism into his new team's attack. As one of the standout signings of the summer, fans eagerly await his contributions and the prospect of seeing him dazzle on the Saudi Arabian football stage.