Discover the biggest foreign stars who joined the Saudi League in 2025 and how their arrivals are transforming the future of the league and its global appeal.
Saudi League’s Biggest Foreign Signings in 2025
The Saudi Pro League continues to rewrite the rules of football’s global transfer market. What began as a few high-profile acquisitions has now evolved into a full-scale movement—one that’s reshaping both the sporting and commercial landscape of football in Asia and beyond. In 2025, the league once again made headlines with a new wave of blockbuster foreign signings that further cement its place as a rising global football powerhouse.
As the league strengthens its reputation, big-name players from Europe and South America have joined the revolution—not just for financial gain, but for competitive opportunity and influence. In this article, we explore the biggest foreign signings in the Saudi League in 2025, highlighting their potential impact on the pitch, the league’s global appeal, and how they’re helping shape the future of Middle Eastern Playboy2 football.
The Rise of the Saudi League as a Global Force
In the last few years, the Saudi League has gone from an emerging competition to one of football’s most talked-about destinations. The turning point came with Cristiano Ronaldo’s 2023 arrival at Al Nassr, which opened the floodgates for stars like Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, Riyad Mahrez, and Sadio Mané to follow suit.
In 2025, the league doubled down, bringing in even more elite-level foreign talent. These signings reflect not just the ambition of individual clubs, but a coordinated national strategy to elevate Saudi football to world-class standards ahead of future international events like the 2034 FIFA World Cup, which Saudi Arabia is preparing to host.
Top 10 Biggest Foreign Signings in the Saudi League – 2025
1. Mohamed Salah – Al Ittihad
After years of speculation, Mohamed Salah finally made the move to Saudi Arabia in mid-2025, joining Al Ittihad on a record-breaking deal worth over €100 million. The Egyptian King was welcomed with open arms by fans, media, and sponsors alike.
Impact:
- Boosted Al Ittihad’s global fanbase
- Strengthened commercial partnerships in North Africa and the Middle East
- Created the league’s most marketable front three
2. Kevin De Bruyne – Al Nassr
One of the most intelligent midfielders of the modern era, Kevin De Bruyne made a surprise switch from Manchester City to Al Nassr after a glittering decade in the Premier League. Despite injury concerns, the Belgian maestro’s arrival signals the Saudi League’s pull even for players still at elite levels.
Impact:
- Elevated Al Nassr’s midfield with world-class vision
- Increased tactical quality league-wide
- Added global media spotlight to every game he plays
3. Jan Oblak – Al Ahli
Atletico Madrid’s long-serving goalkeeper Jan Oblak joined Al Ahli, becoming the league’s highest-profile keeper to date. His leadership and elite shot-stopping add tremendous experience between the posts.
Impact:
- Improved defensive solidity at Al Ahli
- Raised standards for domestic keepers
- Encouraged more defensive signings from Europe
4. Paulo Dybala – Al Hilal
Paulo Dybala’s move to Al Hilal brought flair, creativity, and technical mastery. The Argentine forward, still in his prime, chose the Saudi League over several European offers, signaling its growing competitive draw.
Impact:
- Perfect link-up partner for Mitrović and Milinković-Savić
- Gave Al Hilal the most versatile attacking unit in the league
- Massive draw for Latin American fans
5. Jadon Sancho – Al Shabab
Rebuilding his career after a turbulent period at Manchester United, Sancho’s move to Al Shabab marked a fresh start. The Saudi League is giving him a platform to rediscover his confidence and flair.
Impact:
- Elevated Al Shabab’s attacking identity
- Introduced younger foreign talent into the league
- Boosted league visibility among Gen Z fans
6. Wilfred Ndidi – Al Fateh
The Nigerian midfield anchor joined Al Fateh in a move that surprised many, but made strategic sense. His ability to shield defenses and recycle possession has been crucial.
Impact:
- Strengthened Al Fateh’s stability in midfield
- Brought Premier League experience to a mid-table side
- Raised the tactical IQ of the team
7. Ángel Di María – Al Taawoun
While entering the twilight of his career, Di María remains one of football’s most technically gifted wingers. His short-term deal with Al Taawoun is as much about mentorship as performance.
Impact:
- Guided young Saudi talents
- Elevated match attendance and shirt sales
- Added elite mentality to the dressing room
8. Aymeric Laporte – Al Raed
After a successful stint at Al Nassr, Laporte switched to Al Raed to become their defensive leader. His tactical awareness and leadership are helping elevate lesser-known clubs.
Impact:
- Solidified Al Raed’s backline
- Shifted competitive balance in the league
- Allowed smaller clubs to challenge big teams
9. Luis Muriel – Al Ettifaq
Colombian striker Luis Muriel brings explosiveness and finishing to Steven Gerrard’s Al Ettifaq. Known for his unpredictability, Muriel offers a dynamic option in the final third.
Impact:
- Added unpredictability to Al Ettifaq’s attack
- Helped the team transition quicker in games
- Opened commercial links with South America
10. Thomas Partey – Al Khaleej
A smart signing for a developing team, Partey brings structure and high-level experience from Arsenal. His signing is part of Al Khaleej’s long-term project to stay competitive.
Impact:
- Mentorship for younger Saudi players
- Balance between attack and defense
- Tactical flexibility for the manager
Why These Signings Matter
These acquisitions do more than just raise the talent level—they elevate the league’s global profile and increase its legitimacy. They signal that the league is now a viable destination for players in their prime, not just those at the end of their careers.
- Commercial Growth: New partnerships with global brands and TV networks
- Technical Development: Domestic players benefit from training alongside world-class talents
- Fan Engagement: Larger crowds, more diverse fanbases, and viral online content
Saudi League vs European Leagues: A Real Challenge?
While the Saudi League still has a way to go before it matches the week-to-week intensity of the Premier League or La Liga, its growth trajectory is undeniable. With elite facilities, competitive salaries, and now strong talent pipelines, the league is no longer just a destination—it’s part of the conversation.
The Bigger Picture
The Saudi Arabian Football Federation’s focus isn’t just on importing talent but also on developing domestic players, improving infrastructure, and hosting top-tier international competitions. These foreign stars are part of a larger project that includes:
- Youth academies
- Women’s league development
- Stadium renovations
- Grassroots engagement
Final Thoughts
The Saudi Pro League in 2025 is not just signing stars—it’s building a sustainable football ecosystem. These players bring more than just name recognition; they bring leadership, tactical insight, and global attention. As they adapt and perform, they will continue to shape the league’s future.
As fans, this is your time to support the league. Whether you’re cheering from Riyadh, London, or Lagos, your engagement helps fuel its rise. Watch the matches, follow your favorite stars, and be part of the journey as the league redefines the global football landscape.
