Explore the most impactful Saudi Pro League signings since 2022. Discover how these stars reshaped football in the Middle East and brought global attention to the league.
Introduction
Since 2022, the Saudi Pro League has taken the football world by storm. With an influx of top-tier signings, the league has repositioned itself as one of the most ambitious projects in global football. Driven by the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative, the aim is to transform the country into a global sporting hub. And football has become the centerpiece of this transformation.
From legends of the European game to rising stars looking for new challenges, the league has welcomed a flurry of high-profile arrivals. These signings didn’t just bring talent—they brought attention, marketing appeal, and a shift in the footballing landscape.
Let’s dive into the best and most influential Saudi Pro League signings since 2022.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – Al Nassr (2023)
Arguably the most seismic transfer in Saudi football history, Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr in early 2023 was a landmark moment. After a high-profile departure from Manchester United, Ronaldo brought his elite mentality, global fanbase, and unmatched work ethic to the Middle East.
Ronaldo’s arrival sparked a domino effect, inspiring other global stars to consider Saudi Arabia as a legitimate destination. Beyond his performances on the pitch—scoring over 20 goals in his first full Mega888 season—Ronaldo elevated the league’s media presence and commercial value overnight.
2. Karim Benzema – Al Ittihad (2023)
The reigning Ballon d’Or winner at the time, Karim Benzema’s move to Al Ittihad from Real Madrid sent shockwaves through world football. Having just come off a career-best season, Benzema’s decision signaled that Saudi Arabia was no longer just a retirement league—it was a serious project.
With his intelligence, technical class, and clinical finishing, Benzema became a focal point of Al Ittihad’s attack. His arrival also brought a tactical shift to the team, with a more possession-based and fluid attacking system built around him.
3. Neymar Jr – Al Hilal (2023)
When Neymar left Paris Saint-Germain for Al Hilal in mid-2023, the message was clear: the Saudi Pro League wasn’t just about veterans—it was attracting world-class talent in their prime. Although injuries hampered his debut season, Neymar’s signing boosted the league’s global reach, especially in South America and Asia.
He remains one of the league’s biggest marketing assets, with millions of fans following Al Hilal’s journey just to watch him play.
4. Sadio Mané – Al Nassr (2023)
Another major signing for Al Nassr, Sadio Mané brought Champions League-winning pedigree and immense pace to the Saudi league. Coming from Bayern Munich, the Senegalese star adapted quickly, contributing goals and assists while adding dynamism to the front line.
His professionalism and humility made him a fan favorite and a model figure for aspiring players in the region.
5. Riyad Mahrez – Al Ahli (2023)
Fresh off a treble-winning campaign with Manchester City, Riyad Mahrez joined Al Ahli in the summer of 2023. His dribbling flair, vision, and set-piece prowess elevated the team’s creative output. Mahrez was instrumental in Al Ahli’s resurgence as a title contender.
His presence also marked a strategic shift toward signing players who can still perform at the top level, rather than those winding down their careers.
6. N’Golo Kanté – Al Ittihad (2023)
Midfield dynamo N’Golo Kanté brought balance and elite ball-winning abilities to Al Ittihad. Despite injuries limiting his final seasons at Chelsea, he proved his worth in Saudi Arabia with commanding performances and unmatched work rate.
Kanté’s leadership and calm influence helped stabilize the team’s midfield and provided a platform for players like Benzema to shine.
7. Sergej Milinković-Savić – Al Hilal (2023)
After years of being linked with top European clubs, Milinković-Savić surprised the football world by choosing Al Hilal. The Serbian midfielder brought elegance and power to the midfield, becoming one of the best all-around players in the league.
His consistent performances added depth to Al Hilal’s midfield and showed that younger stars could thrive in Saudi Arabia.
8. Kalidou Koulibaly – Al Hilal (2023)
A defensive general with Premier League and Serie A experience, Koulibaly was a crucial acquisition for Al Hilal. He brought physicality, leadership, and experience to their backline.
His presence solidified the defense, and his experience in high-pressure European matches helped guide younger players around him.
9. Jordan Henderson – Al Ettifaq (2023)
Henderson’s signing was unique—not only was he a former Liverpool captain and Champions League winner, but his arrival symbolized a leadership upgrade for Al Ettifaq.
While his performances were solid, his biggest impact came off the pitch—helping build a professional culture and mentoring local talent.
10. Marcelo Brozović – Al Nassr (2023)
Coming from Inter Milan after a strong Champions League run, Brozović added composure and tactical intelligence to Al Nassr’s midfield. He seamlessly slotted into a deep-lying playmaker role, linking defense and attack with ease.
Brozović’s technical ability and experience were vital in controlling tempo and dictating matches.
The Broader Impact of These Signings
These marquee signings have created a ripple effect throughout football:
- Global Attention: Saudi Pro League matches are now broadcasted in over 40 countries.
- Commercial Growth: Sponsorship deals and club valuations have surged.
- Youth Development: Investment in youth academies has grown, inspired by the need to complement imported talent with local prospects.
- Tactical Evolution: Clubs are hiring elite managers and adopting European-style tactical systems to optimize star talent.
Honorable Mentions
- Roberto Firmino (Al Ahli) – Key goals and leadership in attack.
- Fabinho (Al Ittihad) – Brings solidity and experience in midfield.
- Édouard Mendy (Al Ahli) – Raised goalkeeping standards in the league.
Conclusion
Since 2022, the Saudi Pro League has undergone a footballing revolution, driven by ambitious signings that altered perceptions and raised standards. No longer viewed as a post-retirement destination, the league is now a competitive and attractive stage for global football icons.
As new signings continue to arrive and the league’s infrastructure improves, the Saudi Pro League is well-positioned to become a long-term player in the global football ecosystem.
If you’re passionate about watching the evolution of football and want to see new stories unfold beyond Europe, now’s the time to follow the Saudi Pro League. Support the game we all love—because at its heart, football belongs to the world. ⚽
