From Europe to the Desert: Why Football’s Stars Are Flocking to Saudi Arabia

Over the past few years, there has been a surge in football transfers to the Middle East. A move started by one man, Cristiano Ronaldo, has seen players, both old and young, make transfers to clubs in Saudi Arabia.

The transfer of the Real Madrid and Manchester United legend put the Saudi Pro League on the world football map and is a catalyst for some of the sport’s big names following suit.

From Ronaldo to Benzema, Neymar to Sadio Mane, Ngolo Kante to Robert Firmino, superstars have left the European pitch to the Middle Eastern sands, seeking new challenges away from the spotlight of European football, which has sparked debates about player priorities, financial security and what makes the league attractive.

The migration of footballers to the Saudi Pro League is driven by a combination of substantial financial rewards, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions, and an expanding football infrastructure.

Last year, while speaking at the 2024 Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, Ronaldo said;

“The Saudi Pro League is better than Ligue 1, of course. I’m not saying that because I play here. I don’t care what people think about it. Players should come here and they will see quickly. Just try to do sprints at 38, 39, 40 degrees…

“Come and you will see. If you don’t believe me, come. In France, they only have PSG, everyone else is finished. Nobody can beat them because they have the most money and the best players.”

The Financial Allure: Unmatched Salaries

The primary motivation behind players moving to Saudi Arabia isn’t a lifelong passion for the club – it’s the staggering financial rewards.

For many in their 30s, the offers are life-changing, often including massive salaries, tax-free income, lucrative endorsement deals, and ambassadorial roles that make the move even more appealing.

In contrast, European clubs are typically cautious when offering contracts to ageing stars, constrained by financial fair play regulations and wage structures.

Saudi clubs, however, provide multi-year deals with top-tier pay for both established names and rising talents.

This allows players to secure their financial futures for themselves and their families in ways European deals rarely can.

In January 2023, Ronaldo‘s move to Al-Nassr was reportedly worth $300 million.

His former Madrid teammate Karim Benzema, who joined Al-Ittihad the same year, reportedly earns $100 million annually, an amount that far exceeds what they would have received while in Europe.

Also, former Barcelona star Neymar, whose two-year contract with Al-Hilal is valued at close to $300 million, further underscored the financial might of Saudi clubs.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aimed at reducing oil dependency, boosting tourism, and positioning the nation as a cultural and sporting hub, drives the strategic recruitment of football stars.

Other calculated moves by the P.I.F (Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia) include the buying of English side Newcastle United in 2021 and the hosting of high-profile events like the FIFA Club World Cup in 2023, signalling a clear ambition to establish Saudi Arabia as a global football powerhouse.

Building a Football Ecosystem

The fast-growing infrastructural development is another reason players make the move to Saudi Arabia.

Investments in state-of-the-art stadiums and world-class training facilities have transformed the Saudi Pro League into a competitive league.

Most clubs in the league boast of facilities that can go head-to-head with those in Europe, ensuring that players maintain peak levels and performance.

The Saudi Pro League, over the years, has grown to be a competitive league worth the influx of quality players, which in turn attracts better coaches, elevating the league’s status.

Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s warm climate and lifestyle are perfect for some players.

Career Longevity in the Saudi League

Footballers who have spent their prime years in Europe and can no longer meet the physical demands required to stay at the top often look to move abroad.

Europe’s top leagues, particularly the Premier League, demand relentless intensity, whereas the Saudi Pro League offers a less physically taxing environment.

This allows players to extend their careers while still performing at a competitive level.

Additionally, the SPL features a more accommodating fixture schedule compared to Europe’s congested calendar, providing more recovery time and lowering the risk of burnout and injuries.

Breaking the Retirement Stereotype

One common misconception is that Saudi Arabia is simply a retirement home for ageing stars.

While it’s true that many of the marquee signings have been veterans, younger talents have also made the move in recent years.

For instance, 20-year-old Brazilian attacker Angelo Gabriel joined Al-Nassr from Chelsea in the 2024 summer transfer window, seeking first-team opportunities.

Similarly, Celta Vigo’s highly rated 20-year-old midfielder Gabri Veiga signed with Al-Ahli for €30 million. Other young players, such as Marcos Leonardo and João Filipe (Jota), have also ventured into the SPL, reflecting a growing trend.

Despite its appeal, the Saudi Arabian superstar influx has not been without controversy.

Critics argue that many players are driven primarily by financial gain, choosing lucrative contracts over legacy, and sacrificing competitive prestige for pay cheques.

This has fueled accusations of “Sportswashing”, sparking ongoing debates about the ethics and motivations behind moves to the Saudi Pro League.

What does the future hold?

The Saudi Pro League’s meteoric rise, fueled by mind-blowing salaries and the ambitious Vision 2030 initiative, has propelled it onto the global football stage, drawing stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Ivan Toney.

Backed by world-class infrastructure and heavy investment, the league is positioning itself to potentially rival Europe’s top five.

However, its long-term success will depend on maintaining competitive integrity and developing homegrown talent.