Saudi Arabia has rapidly emerged as a significant player in the football transfer market this year, employing substantial salaries that have successfully enticed a multitude of high-profile names to the oil-rich Gulf nation.
In this context, 'AFP Sport' delves into the list of prominent individuals who have embraced this transition: The Notable Figures
Cristiano Ronaldo's entrance in January as part of Riyadh-based Al-Nassr marked the initial occasion when global attention was directed toward the ongoing endeavors to elevate the Saudi Pro League. Following his footsteps, Karim Benzema, Ronaldo's former teammate from Real Madrid and the winner of the 2022 Ballon d'Or, subscribed to a three-year contract with Al-Ittihad in June.
Merely a few days after this move, another compatriot of theirs, N'Golo Kante, made his way to the same Jeddah-based club, also committing to a three-year engagement. Kante, an experienced player and a member of the triumphant 2018 French World Cup squad, is set to establish a partnership with Liverpool's Brazilian player Fabinho, who is joining the midfield.
With the memory of his historical hat-trick during the FA Cup semi-final for Manchester City in April still resonating, Algeria's team captain Riyad Mahrez has extended his commitment for four years to Jeddah's Al-Ahli. This transfer, estimated to be around 35 million euros, has garnered attention. The most recent accomplishment in the Saudi market is the recruitment of Sadio Mane, the Senegalese sensation, who has signed up with Ronaldo's Al-Nassr. The contract reportedly includes an annual remuneration of 40 million euros, complemented by 10 million euros in bonuses contingent on performance outcomes.
This collection of substantial signings not only attests to Saudi Arabia's increased prominence in the football domain but also underscores its ability to allure globally recognized talents with attractive financial incentives. The sustained influx of elite players to Saudi clubs bolsters the credibility and appeal of the Saudi Pro League on the global football map.
Just a few days later, fellow Frenchman N'Golo Kante joined the same Jeddah-based club, also on a three-year deal. The veteran and member of France's victorious 2018 World Cup squad will form a partnership with Brazilian Fabinho, arriving from Liverpool, in midfield.
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