Top 15 Former Premier League Stars Currently Playing in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Pro League (SPL) is attracting former Premier League stars with lucrative offers, enhancing the league's global appeal. Big names like Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, and N'Golo Kanté have joined Saudi clubs, bringing experience and skill. This influx elevates competition, draws international fans, and positions the SPL as a must-watch league, boosting Saudi Arabia's role in world soccer.

N'Golo Kanté (Image Source: Getty)

In a short time, the Saudi Pro League (SPL) has become a prime location in the world for old EPL players looking for good money without a lot of competition. The big names and big players who have been acquired by those clubs and the ex-PL stars on their way to joining them have been heading there in the 2025–26 season to add not only experience and skill but also global buzz to the Saudi Pro League stage. Having them around has brought a lot of attention towards Saudi Football, which is making the SPL a must-watch league for football fans all around the world.

Premier League stars making an impact in Saudi Arabia

Cristiano Ronaldo – From Manchester United to Al-Nassr

Sadio Mané – From Liverpool to Al-Nassr

João Félix – From Chelsea to Al-Nassr

Alex Telles – From Manchester United to Al-Nassr

David Ospina – From Arsenal to Al-Nassr

Ivan Toney – From Brentford to Al-Ahli

Riyad Mahrez – From Manchester City to Al-Ahli

Roberto Firmino – From Liverpool to Al-Ahli

Allan Saint-Maximin – From Newcastle United to Al-Ahli

Édouard Mendy – From Chelsea to Al-Ahli

Jordan Henderson – From Liverpool to Al-Ettifaq

Fabinho – From Liverpool to Al-Ittihad

N'Golo Kanté – From Chelsea to Al-Ittihad

Steven Bergwijn – From Tottenham Hotspur to Al-Ittihad

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – From Arsenal to Al-Qadsiah

How their presence is transforming the league

These ex-Premier League players have brought a whole new level of world-class experience to their clubs, significantly raising the quality of competition in the SPL. Their tactical acumen, leadership, and scoring prowess have made their teams stronger, while also bringing international fans and media exposure. The signing of past Premier League stars is part of a larger strategy by Saudi clubs to raise the profile and competitiveness of their league. With every additional star player joining the league, SPL is ready to be one of the most televised leagues in the area, consolidating Saudi Arabia´s role in world soccer. Also Read: Rumor: What could happen if Bruno Fernandes joins Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League? It's a trend that embodies both part-time ambition and part-time investment, finding that sweet spot where the SPL becomes a desirable venue for the right players whose dreams of remaining in Europe have dimmed, but never completely gone out, while giving fans the opportunity of life all year round.

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