The Saudi Pro League has rapidly gained global prominence as a major football competition. Cristiano Ronaldo led the way by joining Al-Nassr in January 2023, after ending his contract with Manchester United.
Ronaldo’s move set off a wave of other stars heading to the Middle East this summer, drawn by generous salaries and a less intense playing environment, which appeals to those nearing the end of their careers.
As a result, the league has grown more competitive over the past year.
Let’s check out the top five players in the Saudi Pro League for the 2023-24 season.
5. Franck Kessie – Al-Ahli
Franck Kessie might have had a successful career in European football, but he chose to leave that behind for the wealth of the Saudi Pro League. Last season, Kessie was with Barcelona but found himself struggling for playing time.
Now, at 26 years old, he’s a key player in midfield for Al-Ahli. The Ivory Coast star is both physically dominant and skilled with the ball.
Kessie has certainly strengthened Al-Ahli’s midfield, scoring five goals and providing two assists in 16 league games.
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4. Ruben Neves – Al-Hilal
Ruben Neves’ transfer to Saudi Arabia surprised many fans. Having played effectively for Wolverhampton Wanderers, Neves attracted attention from top clubs like Barcelona and Manchester United.
Despite this, Neves chose to join the Saudi Pro League. At just 26, the Portuguese midfielder has significantly strengthened Al-Hilal’s midfield. His performance has played a key role in Al-Hilal’s rise to the top of the Saudi Pro League.
Neves has been one of the team’s most reliable players this season, contributing three assists in 15 matches so far.
3. Marcelo Brozovic – Al-Nassr
Securing the services of Marcelo Brozovic from Inter Milan this summer for just €18 million was an absolute coup. Al-Nassr have benefitted greatly from this piece of business to no one’s surprise. After all, Brozovic is undoubtedly one of the finest defensive midfielders of his generation.
The Croatia international has thrived at the base of Al-Nassr’s midfield and has been a tireless presence in the centre of the park for them. He has bossed the midfield realms and has already endeared himself to the fans of the club.
2. Aleksandar Mitrovic – Al-Hilal
Aleksandar Mitrovic’s move to Al-Hilal from the bustling Premier League came as a surprise to many. At 29, he appeared to be at the peak of his career, having just enjoyed his best season individually in the English top flight with Fulham.
During the 2022-23 season, he scored 15 goals and added four assists in 28 appearances for Fulham. His performance in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Hilal has been equally impressive. This season, Mitrovic has scored 14 goals and provided three assists in 14 league matches, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top strikers.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – Al-Nassr
Cristiano Ronaldo continues to stand out among top footballers even as he approaches his 40s. He remains the top player in a league where many of the current stars are in their prime.
Ronaldo leads the Saudi Pro League with 16 goals and has also provided eight assists in just 15 games this season. His finishing has been precise, and he has been quick and effective in making decisions near the goal.
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