49 Saudi League Best Players of All Time

Andrew Kovacs

The Saudi Professional League is the top football division of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation. It is one of the most competitive and highly regarded leagues in the Middle East.

It features some of the best players in the world, many of whom have gone on to play in top European leagues. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best players in the Saudi Professional League and what makes them such great players.

We’ll also discuss how the league has evolved over the years and what the future holds for the competition.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the most well-known and successful professional footballers in the world.

He is a Portuguese footballer who currently plays as a forward for the Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr and also captains the Portuguese national team. Ronaldo has had a long and successful career, starting from his time at Sporting Lisbon and then Manchester United.

During his time in the Premier League with Manchester United, he won three Premier League titles, one FA Cup, two League Cups, one UEFA Champions League title, and the FIFA Club World Cup.

He was also named FIFPro World Player of the Year in 2008. After his time with Manchester United, Ronaldo moved to Real Madrid where he won two La Liga titles, four UEFA Champions League titles, two Copa Del Rey titles, two Supercopa de Espana titles, three UEFA Super Cups, and three FIFA Club World Cup titles.

He also won the Ballon d’Or four times in the years 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2017. Ronaldo is currently the all-time leading goalscorer in the UEFA Champions League with 120 goals.

He is also the all-time leading goalscorer for Portugal with 103 goals, and he is the first player to win three European Golden Shoes. Ronaldo’s achievements are further highlighted by his individual awards, such as the FIFA World Player of the Year award, the UEFA Best Player in Europe award, the Serie A Best Player award, and the UEFA Nations League Player of the Tournament award.

He is also the first player to reach 100 million followers on social media. Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro GOIH ComM is an inspirational footballer who has achieved greatness through hard work and dedication.

His career is a testament to his determination and talent, and his achievements will continue to inspire generations to come.

2. Karim Benzema

Karim Mostafa Benzema is a highly talented and renowned footballer. He plays as a striker for the Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad and is considered one of the greatest strikers of all time. Benzema is a creative force and a formidable goal-scorer.

He is also known for his exceptional technical skills, vision and versatility on the field. He is often praised for his ability to read the game and make split-second decisions that can change the course of a match.

His ability to make runs and carve out chances for himself and his teammates makes him an invaluable asset to the team. He also possesses a wide array of skills that allow him to be dangerous in the box and on the counter-attack.

His ability to find space and make runs behind the defense has caused havoc for many opponents. Benzema’s intelligence, technique and goal-scoring ability make him one of the most complete strikers of all time.

3. Sadio Mané

Sadio Mané is a Senegalese professional footballer who plays as a forward for Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr and for the Senegal national team. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest African players of all time, due to his impressive abilities and techniques.

Mané is well known for his ability to press forward with the ball, his dribbling abilities, as well as his incredible speed when running with the ball.

His ability to quickly take on an opponent, as well as his ability to quickly accelerate with the ball, make him a dangerous opponent. His speed and agility make him a very important asset to both Al Nassr and the Senegal national team.

Mané’s technique and skill have rightfully earned him a place among the greatest African players of all time.

4. Riyad Mahrez

Riyad Karim Mahrez is a highly talented professional footballer who is currently playing for Al-Ahli, a Saudi Pro League club. He is also the captain of the Algeria national team.

Mahrez has a remarkable career as a youth player, having started out with French club AAS Sarcelles. He has since gone on to become one of the most sought-after players in the world, with clubs from all over the globe competing for his signature.

Mahrez is renowned for his attacking prowess, often creating goalscoring opportunities for his teammates and scoring goals himself. He is also a skillful dribbler, known for his ability to create space in tight situations and beat defenders with ease.

Mahrez has become a vital player for both club and country, with his talent and leadership helping both teams to achieve success.

5. Fabinho

Fábio Henrique Tavares, commonly known as Fabinho, is a Brazilian professional soccer player. He currently plays for the Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad and the Brazil national team.

Fabinho is a defensive midfielder by trade, and is known for his versatility as he can also be deployed as a right-back and centre-back. His ability to read the game and break up play is one of his key attributes, as he is able to control the tempo of the game.

He also possesses good passing and dribbling skills, which allows him to contribute to the team’s attack. Fabinho is an important player for both his club and his national team, and his presence is sure to be felt on the pitch.

6. Rúben Neves

Rúben Diogo da Silva Neves is a highly accomplished Portuguese footballer. He currently plays as a defensive midfielder for Al-Hilal, a Saudi Pro League club, as well as the Portugal national team.

Neves began his football career at the age of 17 when he made his debut for Porto, his first professional team. Neves has quickly established himself as one of the most promising young players in Portugal. He has been praised for his technical ability and tactical intelligence.

His impressive performances earned him a move to Al-Hilal in 2019, where he has continued to impress with his defensive skills.

Additionally, Neves has made several appearances for the Portugal national team and is widely regarded as one of the most important players in the team. Neves is a great example of how hard work and dedication can pay off.

Despite being only 23 years old, he has already achieved a great deal in his young career. His impressive performances have earned him a place in the Portugal national team and a prestigious move to the Saudi Pro League.

It is clear that Neves will continue to make a name for himself in the near future.

7. Kalidou Koulibaly

Kalidou Koulibaly is a professional footballer who has enjoyed a long and successful career. He currently plays as a centre-back for Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal and captains the Senegal national team.

Koulibaly started his professional club career in 2010 with French team Metz. After two seasons, he moved to Belgian club Genk in 2012. During his time there, he was part of the team that won the Belgian Cup in his first season.

His performances at Genk earned him a move to Italian side Napoli in 2014, where he enjoyed great success, helping them to win the Coppa Italia in 2014 and the Supercoppa Italiana in 2014 and 2014.

Koulibaly has become a key player for club and country, and is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in world football.

8. N’Golo Kanté

N’Golo Kanté is a highly acclaimed French professional footballer who currently plays as a defensive midfielder for Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad and the France national team.

He has earned considerable praise from his peers and the football community for his outstanding work rate and defensive acumen.

Kanté’s ability to read the game, intercept the ball, and win back possession for his team has made him one of the most sought-after and respected defensive midfielders of his generation.

He has been praised for his tireless work ethic and ability to stay one step ahead of his opponents.

Kanté is renowned for his tactical awareness, intelligence, and anticipation, as well as his ability to break up opposition attacks and launch counter-attacks with effective passing. His remarkable defensive contributions have become a vital part in the success of his teams.

9. Allan Saint-Maximin

Allan Irénée Saint-Maximin is a French professional footballer who currently plays for Al Ahli, a club in the Saudi Professional League.

He has had an impressive career, having previously played for some of the biggest clubs in France, such as Saint-Étienne, Monaco, and Nice, as well as for Newcastle United, an English Premier League team.

Saint-Maximin has been an integral part of his teams, often providing assists for his teammates and creating chances for them to score. He is an agile player, with great speed and dribbling ability, allowing him to take on defenders and get past them.

He is also capable of shooting from long range, making him a valuable asset to his team.

10. Roberto Firmino

Roberto Firmino Barbosa de Oliveira is a Brazilian professional footballer who currently plays for Al Ahli, a Saudi Professional League club, and the Brazil national team.

He is the captain of Al Ahli, and is capable of playing either as a forward or an attacking midfielder. Firmino’s footballing career began in 2009, when he joined Figueirense, a Brazilian club. He then spent four-and-a-half seasons at TSG Hoffenheim, a German club.

During this period, Firmino established himself as one of the best young players in the game, and was quickly courted by clubs from all over the world.

After his impressive stint with Hoffenheim, Firmino eventually joined Al Ahli in 2018, and has since been an integral part of the team. He has also been a part of the Brazil national team since 2014, and has been an important player for the Seleção.

Overall, Roberto Firmino Barbosa de Oliveira is a highly talented footballer who has enjoyed success both in club and international football. With his captaincy of Al Ahli and his impressive performances for Brazil, he is one of the most talked-about players in the world.

11. Sergej Milinković-Savić

Sergej Milinković-Savić is a professional footballer from Serbia. He is often referred to by his mononym Sergej.

He currently plays as a midfielder for the Saudi Professional League club Al Hilal and the Serbia national team. Sergej began his career at Vojvodina in his native Serbia, making his debut in 2013. He went on to play for Belgian side K.A.A.

Gent before joining Italian club Lazio in 2015. During his time with Lazio, Sergej established himself as one of the best midfielders in Serie A. He was part of the team that won the Coppa Italia in 2019. In 2021, Sergej joined Al Hilal in the Saudi Professional League.

Although he has only been with the club for a short period of time, he has already established himself as an important part of the team, helping them to reach the AFC Champions League final in 2021. Sergej has also represented his country at an international level.

He has played for the Serbia national team since 2014 and has made over 30 appearances for the team.

He has been part of the team that won the 2017 UEFA European Under-21 Championship and was also part of the team that reached the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. Sergej Milinković-Savić is one of the most talented footballers in Europe and is continuing to make a mark in the world of football.

He has already achieved success at both club and international level and with his talent and determination, he looks set to continue to make a name for himself in the years to come.

12. Marcelo Brozović

Marcelo Brozović is a talented professional footballer from Croatia. He is currently playing as a defensive midfielder for Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, which is one of the top professional football leagues in the world.

Brozović has made a name for himself in the football world, having represented his country, Croatia, at the international level. He has featured in matches for the national team in the 2018 FIFA World Cup, as well as in the UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying tournament.

His presence in the midfield for Croatia has been key in helping them reach the finals in both of these tournaments. Brozović has also seen success in his domestic club career, winning multiple titles throughout the years.

He has been a part of some of the top teams in the world, including Inter Milan, and is currently playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.

His experience and ability have made him a valuable asset for both club and country, and he will continue to be an important part of the football landscape for years to come.

13. Talisca

Anderson Souza Conceição, commonly known as Anderson Talisca or simply Talisca, is a professional Brazilian footballer. He plays as an attacking midfielder and forward for Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr.

Talisca began his career at Brazilian club Bahia in 2012, where he made a name for himself as one of the most promising young players in the country.

He moved to Portuguese side Benfica in 2014, where he won the league title in 2015-16 and reached the final of the UEFA Europa League in 2017. In 2019, he signed for Chinese side Guangzhou Evergrande, but he was loaned to Turkish side Besiktas for two seasons.

In 2021, he transferred to Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr. Talisca has also represented the Brazilian national team on multiple occasions, earning 33 caps and scoring 12 goals.

He is widely regarded as one of the best-attacking midfielders in the world, and his skill set has enabled him to be successful in a variety of leagues.

14. Édouard Mendy

Édouard Osoque Mendy is a highly skilled footballer who currently plays as a goalkeeper for the Saudi Professional League club Al Ahli. He was born in France and has been playing football since a young age.

He is now representing the Senegal national team, which is an incredible feat for any footballer. Mendy has been praised for his excellent reflexes, agility and shot-stopping abilities, making him one of the best goalkeepers in the world.

His skill in goal has helped Al Ahli to numerous victories and successes. As a result, he has become one of the most well-known and respected players in the league.

Mendy is an excellent role model for young people, showing them that hard work and dedication can pay off and take you to the highest levels of the sport.

His consistency and reliability in goal have earned him a loyal following of fans who always look forward to seeing him play.

15. Neymar

Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, commonly known as Neymar Júnior or Neymar, is a Brazilian professional football player. He currently plays as a forward for the Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal and the Brazil national team.

Neymar is a highly acclaimed international football star, with a long list of accomplishments that have made him one of the best players in the world.

He has won the Copa America, the FIFA Club World Cup, the UEFA Champions League, and the Olympic gold medal, among many other awards. He is also the second highest-paid athlete in the world, according to Forbes.

Neymar has been playing professional football since he was a teenager, and he has featured for some of the world’s biggest teams, including Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Santos.

His skill and trickery on the ball have made him a fan favorite, and he is widely regarded as one of the most talented players of his generation.

16. Franck Kessié

Franck Yannick Kessié is an Ivorian professional footballer who has been playing the sport for many years. He is currently employed by Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli and also represents his country, the Ivory Coast, on the national team.

Kessié typically plays as a central or defensive midfielder, an important role within the team. He is responsible for controlling the middle of the field and helping to create chances for his team by distributing the ball to his attacking players.

He also plays a crucial part in defending his team, breaking up the opposition’s attacks and providing cover for his teammates.

17. Éver Banega

Éver Maximiliano David Banega is an Argentine professional footballer who currently plays for the Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab as a central midfielder.

Born in Rosario, Argentina, Banega began his professional career with Boca Juniors in 2006, making his debut in a Copa Libertadores match.

He then moved to Spanish club Valencia in 2008, where he spent several successful years, making 162 official appearances and winning the 2008 Copa del Rey, Spanish football’s primary cup competition.

During his time at Valencia, Banega gained valuable experience playing in the UEFA Champions League and also won the 2011-12 Copa del Rey with the club.

Following a brief loan stint at Newell’s Old Boys, Banega returned to his native country and signed with the Argentine club Newell’s Old Boys. He then went on to play for Atlético Madrid, Sevilla FC, and Al Shabab, where he currently plays.

Throughout his career, Banega has developed a reputation for being an excellent passer and ball-winner while also possessing an eye for goal. He has also been praised for his leadership qualities, and his ability to dictate the tempo of a game.

Banega has represented his country at the international level, earning 35 caps for the Argentina national team.

18. Seko Fofana

Seko Mohamed Fofana is a highly talented professional footballer who has committed himself to the game since a young age. Born in France, he is of Ivorian descent and has represented the Ivory Coast national team on several occasions.

At the club level, Fofana currently plays for Al Nassr, a Saudi Pro League team. He is known for his defensive midfield role, a position he has perfected over the years. Fofana is an exemplary athlete who has a tireless work ethic and a great deal of skill.

He is a passionate footballer who is always striving to be the best and is a valuable asset to the team.

19. Merih Demiral

Merih Demiral is a professional footballer from Turkey who currently plays as a centre-back for Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli as well as the Turkish national team.

He is a highly talented player who has earned much recognition for his performances in both domestic and international football. Born in 1998, Demiral began his footballing career with local Turkish side Altınordu.

He quickly established himself in the first team and made a total of 82 appearances over three seasons, helping the team to a promotion to the Süper Lig in the 2018/19 season. Following this successful spell, Demiral joined Serie A side Juventus in January 2019.

He made a total of 34 appearances for the Italian side, helping them to two consecutive Serie A titles. In September 2020, Demiral signed for Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli on a four-year deal.

He has since become an important part of the team, making 14 appearances and contributing two goals.

He has also established himself as a regular in the Turkish national team, making 22 appearances to date. Merih Demiral has firmly established himself as an important figure in both Turkish and international football.

His performances for Al-Ahli and the Turkish national team have been impressive, and he is sure to continue to impress in the years to come.

20. Aleksandar Mitrović

Aleksandar Mitrović is a talented Serbian professional footballer who currently plays as a striker for Al Hilal, a Saudi Pro League club. Before his professional career began, he had a successful youth career at Partizan, a Serbian football club.

He further developed his skills and experience by being loaned to Teleoptik, a local club in Serbia. During his first season with Teleoptik, Mitrović helped his team win the Serbian SuperLiga, an impressive feat for a first-year player.

This success helped him transition into a professional career, and he is now a valued player for Al Hilal and the Serbia national team.

21. Roger Ibañez

Roger Ibañez da Silva is a Brazilian football player who is currently playing for Al-Ahli, a professional team in the Saudi Pro League, and for the Brazil national team.

He is a versatile player, with experience playing in both the central defender and defensive midfielder positions. As a central defender, Ibañez da Silva is responsible for protecting his team’s goal line by blocking shots and marking opposing players when defending.

He is also tasked with distributing the ball to his teammates and making sure that his side maintains possession.

This requires him to have a good eye for the game and good passing accuracy. When playing as a defensive midfielder, Ibañez da Silva is the link between the defense and the attack, often being the first player to receive the ball from his team’s defense and then to distribute it to the attack.

He must possess both good defensive and offensive skills in order to be successful in this role.

He must also be able to read the game and anticipate where the ball will go in order to be effective in his position. Ibañez da Silva has proven himself to be a valuable asset to both Al-Ahli and the Brazil national team.

His versatility and ability to play both positions with skill and precision make him a valuable asset to any team. He has the potential to be one of the best players in the world and will be a key figure for both teams for years to come.

22. Malcolm

Malcom Filipe Silva de Oliveira, commonly known as Malcom, is an international professional footballer. He is a Brazilian native, but since February 2023, he also holds a Russian citizenship.

Malcom is currently playing as a forward for the Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal and is also a part of the Brazil national team. He is usually used as a right winger, a position in which he excels.

Malcom is an incredibly talented player, and this combination of Brazilian and Russian citizenship gives him an edge over his opponents. He has been able to make the most of his dual citizenship and has become one of the most sought-after players in the world.

23. Jota

João Pedro Neves Filipe, commonly known as Jota, is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a winger for the Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad.

He is originally from Lisbon, Portugal and began his career in the youth academy of Benfica, where he would make his senior debut with the club’s B team in 2018.

After a season of solid performances, Jota was promoted to the first team but didn’t get much playing time due to the high level of competition in the squad. In 2020, he made the move to Al-Ittihad, where he would have more opportunities to make an impact.

Jota has shown great potential and has the ability to become a top player in the near future.

24. Habib Diallo

Mouhamadou Habibou “Habib” Diallo is an accomplished professional footballer from Senegal. He currently plays as a forward for the Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab, and is also a member of the Senegal national team.

Diallo is a well-respected and talented player, having achieved success in many leagues and tournaments. He has played for a variety of clubs throughout his career, including the French side RC Strasbourg, the Turkish side Antalyaspor, and the Belgian side KV Kortrijk.

Diallo has also been a member of the Senegal national team since 2015, representing his country in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. He has been a consistent performer for Al-Shabab since joining the club in 2019, scoring 9 goals in 28 appearances in all competitions.

Diallo is regarded as a key player for both Al-Shabab and the Senegal national team, and he is expected to continue his impressive form in the future.

25. Juanmi

Juan Miguel Jiménez López, also known as Juanmi, is a Spanish professional footballer who currently plays for the Saudi Pro League club Al-Riyadh as a forward.

He is on loan from La Liga club Real Betis, having originally signed for the club in 2017. Juanmi has played for a number of clubs throughout his career, including Sevilla, Malaga, and Deportivo La Coruna.

He has also represented Spain at a number of age levels, most recently the Under-21 team. His performances for Real Betis led to him being loaned out to Al-Riyadh in 2020. At Al-Riyadh, Juanmi has impressed, scoring four goals in twelve appearances in all competitions.

He is seen as a bright prospect for the future and is expected to make a big impact in the Saudi Pro League. Juanmi is a typical modern forward, capable of playing as a lone striker or as part of a forward line.

He has excellent technical ability, is quick and agile, and is a good finisher.

He is also a creative player, and his technical ability and vision make him a threat in the final third. Overall, Juanmi is an exciting young talent, and he is likely to make a big impact in the Saudi Pro League.

He has all the tools to become a top player, and his loan move to Al-Riyadh could be the perfect opportunity for him to realize his potential.

26. Otávio

Otávio Edmilson da Silva Monteiro, better known as Otávio or Otavinho, is a highly talented professional footballer. He plays in the attacking midfielder or winger position for the Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr and the Portugal national team.

His technical ability and flair for the game have made him a fan favorite, and his impressive performances for both club and country have earned him recognition and admiration. Otávio is known for his excellent ball control, his creativity in the final third, and his ability to deliver dangerous crosses into the box.

He is also an adept dribbler, capable of navigating his way out of tight spaces and creating chances for his team.

His passing accuracy and vision have also made him a key asset in the midfield, allowing him to thread through the tightest of defensive lines. Otávio’s hard work and dedication to the game have been rewarded with numerous accolades, including being named Portuguese Footballer of the Year in 2019.

He has also earned a place in the Portugal national team, where he has been a regular starter since 2016. Despite his success, Otávio remains humble and is always eager to learn and improve. He has become an inspiration for aspiring young footballers and is a role model to many.

He is an example of how hard work and dedication can lead to success.

27. Odion Ighalo

Odion Jude Ighalo is a Nigerian professional football player who currently plays as a forward for Al-Wehda, a club in the Saudi Pro League, and the Nigerian national team. Ighalo began his career in his home country, playing for two clubs, Prime and Julius Berger.

In 2007, he made the move to Norway to join the club Lyn. During his time in Norway, Ighalo was able to hone his skills and become the player he is today. He was able to use his time in Norway to gain experience and develop his playing style.

After his stint in Norway, Ighalo went on to make a name for himself in the Saudi Pro League, where he is currently playing. He has also become a regular member of the Nigerian national team, representing his country in numerous international tournaments.

Ighalo’s career demonstrates the hard work and dedication he has put in to become one of the top players in the world.

28. David Ospina

David Ospina Ramírez is an accomplished professional footballer from Colombia. He serves as the goalkeeper for the Saudi Professional League club Al Nassr and captains the Colombia national team.

Ospina started his journey in 2005 with Atlético Nacional, a Colombian football club. While playing for Atlético Nacional, his impressive performances earned him a position in the Colombian national team.

He has represented Colombia in several international tournaments, such as the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2019 Copa America. Ospina’s impressive footballing skills have also been acknowledged outside his home country.

In 2014, he was signed by the English Premier League club Arsenal. During his time at Arsenal, he was part of the team that won the FA Cup in 2017 and the FA Community Shield in 2014 and 2015.

In 2019, Ospina joined the Saudi Professional League club Al Nassr, where he currently serves as the goalkeeper. He continues to captain the Colombia national team and has been a key player for them in recent tournaments.

Overall, David Ospina Ramírez has achieved a lot in his career as a professional footballer. His performances have been recognized both in Colombia and abroad, and he continues to be a key player for his teams.

29. Jordan Henderson

Jordan Brian Henderson is an exceptional and highly acclaimed English footballer. He currently plays in the Saudi Pro League for Al-Ettifaq and is also a part of the England national team. Henderson is praised for his leadership qualities, versatility and physicality.

He is a leader on and off the field, inspiring and motivating his teammates to work hard and strive for excellence. Henderson is known for his ability to play a variety of positions, from defensive midfielder to attacking midfielder.

His physicality is a key asset, as he is an incredibly strong and powerful presence on the field. He is not afraid to get stuck in and put in the hard work, making him a valuable asset for his team.

Henderson has a long list of accomplishments to his name, including being named an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 2020 for his services to football.

He has also been honored with the FA Cup Player of the Round award in 2012 and the FIFA FIFPro World XI nomination in 2017. He is a highly respected and well-loved footballer, and his leadership, versatility and physicality make him a formidable presence on the field.

30. Salem Aldawsari

Salem Mohammed Shafi Al-Dawsari is a renowned Saudi Arabian professional footballer who currently plays as a winger or second-striker for Al Hilal, a Saudi Professional League club.

His impressive footballing prowess has earned him the admiration of football fans worldwide and has also made him one of the most talented Asian footballers of his generation. Al-Dawsari has made a considerable impact in the Saudi Professional League, playing for clubs like Al Ahli and Al Hilal.

He has also been a regular member of the Saudi Arabia national team. In 2019, he was a part of the team that won the AFC Asian Cup and was also awarded the Bronze Ball for his performance during the tournament.

In addition, he has been named the Saudi Professional League Player of the Year twice, in 2016 and 2018. Al-Dawsari is well-known for his exceptional dribbling and passing abilities, as well as his impressive speed and agility.

He is also known for his high work rate and tenacity on the pitch, which makes him a valuable asset to his team.

These skills have helped him to become one of the most sought-after players in the region and have earned him the nickname “the Saudi Messi”.The combination of Al-Dawsari’s impressive footballing skills and his worldwide recognition have earned him the title of one of the greatest Asian footballers of his generation.

He is an inspiration to many young aspiring footballers in the region, and his career serves as a testament to what can be achieved through hard work and dedication.

31. Ahmed Hegazi

Ahmed Elsayed Ali Elsayed Hegazy, popularly known as Ahmed Hegazi, is an Egyptian professional footballer who currently plays as a centre-back for the Saudi Professional League club Al-Ittihad.

He is also the captain of the team and is also an important member of the Egypt national team. Hegazi started his football career in the youth team of Ismaily SC, before eventually being promoted to the senior team in 2009.

He then went on to play for El-Masry SC from 2010 to 2012. After that, he moved to the Saudi Professional League club Al-Ittihad in 2013.

He has been with the club since then and has been the captain of the team since 2014. Hegazi has made a name for himself with his formidable defensive skills and has been a key member of the Egypt national team since his debut in 2011.

He has also represented his country at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and was a part of the team that won the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. Hegazi has achieved a lot during his career so far and will no doubt continue to do so in the years to come.

He is a talented footballer and an inspirational leader who is sure to remain an important member of the Egypt national team for many years to come.

32. Omar Al Somah

Omar Jehad Al Somah is a well-known professional footballer from Syria. He currently plays in the Qatar Stars League as a striker for Al-Arabi club.

As a player for the Qatar Stars League, he has earned a number of accolades, including being named the Top Scorer of the 2017/2018 season. Aside from his club career, he is also a member of the Syrian national team.

He has been a part of the team since 2013 and has scored a number of important goals for the team. He is an integral part of the team and has been an influence in helping the team secure important wins.

Al Somah has become a symbol of success in Syrian football and is looked up to by many aspiring footballers in the country.

33. Romarinho

Romário Ricardo da Silva, commonly known as Romarinho, is a professional Brazilian football player. He was born in Brazil and currently plays as a striker for Al-Ittihad.

In 2017, Romarinho made a move to UAE Gulf League team Al Jazira on a free transfer after his contract with Jaish had expired. This transfer is a testament to his abilities as a striker, and he has been successful in his new team since joining.

Romarinho has the potential to become one of the best strikers in the Gulf League, and this move is a major step forward in his career. He is a versatile player who can play as a striker, winger, or midfielder, giving him great potential to make an impact in his new team.

His skill and experience will surely be an asset to Al Jazira, and he will be a valuable asset to the team as they look to achieve success in the UAE Gulf League.

34. Yassine Bounou

Yassine Bounou, better known as Bono, is an accomplished professional footballer from Morocco. He currently plays as a goalkeeper for Al Hilal, a Saudi Pro League club, and is also a member of the Morocco national team.

Bono has been playing football since his youth career in Morocco, where he was part of Wydad AC. During his time with Wydad AC, Bono developed his skills and even earned some recognition. However, it was his move to Al Hilal that really propelled his career.

He is now an integral part of the team and has made numerous appearances for the side in the Saudi Pro League. Bono’s progress has also been recognized by the Morocco national team, as he has been called up to the side numerous times.

He has become a regular player for the team and has made some impressive performances. His presence in goal has helped Morocco to several victories, and his skills and determination have made him a fan favorite.

Bono has come a long way since his days in Morocco, and his accomplishments have been impressive. He is one of the most talented goalkeepers in the world and looks set to have a successful career ahead of him.

35. Moussa Dembélé

Moussa Dembélé is a highly accomplished professional footballer from France. He is currently playing as a striker for the Saudi Professional League club Al-Ettifaq. His career began when he was developed by the esteemed Paris Saint-Germain.

In November 2013, Dembélé made his professional debut for the esteemed English Premier League club Fulham. During his time there, he scored an impressive 19 goals in 64 matches. In 2016, Dembélé moved to Scotland to join the successful Celtic side.

His move to Celtic marked the beginning of a highly successful period for the club, as they won a number of domestic titles.

This success and his impressive goal scoring record has seen him become a highly sought after player, and he now plays with Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Professional League.

36. Álvaro Medrán

Álvaro Medrán Just is a Spanish professional footballer who currently plays for the Saudi Professional League club Al Taawoun FC as a midfielder.

He started his football career with Real Madrid, progressing through the club’s academy and eventually making his professional debut with the first team. During his time at Real Madrid, Álvaro made five appearances with the first team.

In order to further his development, he was loaned to Getafe, where he was able to gain more experience in the professional game. However, after his loan stint with Getafe, he was released by Real Madrid.

Since then, he has been playing for Al Taawoun FC in the Saudi Professional League.

37. Abderrazak Hamdallah

Abderrazak Hamdallah is an exceptionally talented Moroccan professional footballer who currently plays as a striker for the Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad and the Morocco national team. He is widely known as “The Executioner” due to his remarkable goal scoring ability.

Hamdallah is a highly talented footballer whose skills have enabled him to score consistently for both club and country. He is well-known for his finishing ability and is often praised for his ability to put the ball in the back of the net.

His excellent technique and composure in front of goal have earned him the nickname of “The Executioner”. Hamdallah has been an integral part of the Moroccan team for many years, and he has scored some important goals for both club and country.

He has been the top goalscorer for his team in the Saudi Pro League for the past two seasons, and he has also been the top scorer for the Morocco national team in the past two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

Hamdallah’s excellent goal scoring ability has earned him the nickname of “The Executioner”. His finishing ability and composure in front of goal have made him one of the most feared strikers in the world.

He is a key member of both his club and his national team and will continue to be an important part of both teams for many years to come.

38. Igor Coronado

Igor Caique Coronado is a talented soccer player from Brazil. He currently plays for Al-Ittihad, a soccer club in the Saudi Professional League. Coronado plays in the attacking midfielder position, which means he is responsible for creating scoring opportunities for his team.

His job is to work with the forwards and midfielders to make sure the ball moves closer to the opposing goal. Coronado is a creative player who has the ability to make quick decisions and provide accurate passes.

He is also good at reading the game and anticipating the moves of his opponents. He is an important player for Al-Ittihad, and his experience and skill have been a valuable asset to the team.

39. Ghislain Konan

Ghislain N’Clomande Konan is an Ivorian professional footballer who is currently playing for the Saudi Professional League club Al Nassr. He plays as a left-back, which is a position in football that is responsible for protecting the left side of the team’s defense.

Konan has also represented his home country, the Ivory Coast, in international competition as a member of their national team. Konan made his professional debut in 2012 with the Ivory Coast’s ASEC Mimosas.

Since then he has played for various clubs in the Ivory Coast, Lebanon, and France before joining Al Nassr in 2020. He has also made several appearances for the Ivory Coast’s national team, helping them qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021.

Konan is a talented defender who is known for his defensive abilities as well as his ability to create chances going forward.

He has an impressive tackling ability and is very good at reading the game, which allows him to anticipate the opposition’s movements and make the right decisions.

His attacking prowess is also evident, as he is able to contribute in the final third with his passing and crossing. Konan is an important member of the Al Nassr and Ivory Coast teams due to his skill and experience.

He is a talented footballer who has the potential to become an even better player in the future.

40. Grzegorz Krychowiak

Grzegorz Krychowiak is a highly accomplished Polish professional footballer. He is currently playing as a defensive midfielder for the Saudi Professional League club Abha and the Poland national team.

He is known for his defensive abilities, his tactical awareness and his sharp passing. Krychowiak started his football career early, playing for clubs like Pogoń Szczecin and Zagłębie Lubin as a teenager.

He later moved to France where he had a successful stint with Ligue 1 clubs Lille OSC and Paris Saint-Germain.

Following his success in France, he went on to join La Liga club Sevilla where he won the Europa League in 2015. In 2017, he returned to France to join Olympique de Marseille and then moved to the Saudi Professional League club Abha in 2020.

With the Poland national team, he represented the country in the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cup.

In addition, he was part of the squad that won the silver medal at the 2016 UEFA European Championship. Krychowiak is renowned for his defensive and tactical abilities, as well as his ability to read the game and make the right decisions.

He is also known for his sharp passing and his ability to play in tight spaces. He has established himself as one of the top defensive midfielders in Europe and has earned numerous accolades for his performances.

41. Alex Telles

Alex Nicolao Telles is an impressive and talented Brazilian professional footballer. He plays as a left-back for Saudi Pro League team Al Nassr and the Brazil national team. Telles began his career playing for the Brazilian Série D football team, Juventude, in 2013.

After only one season playing for Juventude, he was sold to Série A team Grêmio. His performance for Grêmio was so impressive that he was voted the best left-back in the league for the 2013 season.

Since then, he has continued to excel with Al Nassr and the Brazil national team, becoming one of the top players in the world at his position. His accomplishments in the sport are a testament to his commitment and hard work.

42. Moussa Marega

Moussa Marega is an accomplished professional footballer who plays as a second striker. He was born in France and is currently playing for the Mali national team.

His career began in France, where he played at the Championnat National level, before making a move to Espérance in Tunisia. After his stint there, he transferred to the Portuguese club Marítimo in 2015, competing in the top-flight Primeira Liga.

His performances for the club have been impressive, with him being one of their most important players. He has also been a key contributor for the Mali national team, helping them to reach the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019.

Moussa Marega is a very talented footballer with a bright future ahead of him.

43. Mourad Batna

Mourad Batna is a professional Moroccan footballer who currently plays for Al-Fateh. He plays the position of a winger, which means he is a player who is usually positioned on either side of the field, close to the touchlines.

As a winger, he is tasked with providing width and running down the line to deliver crosses into the penalty area. He also works to connect midfield and attack, creating chances for his teammates.

Mourad Batna is known for his pace, agility, and ability to dribble past opponents. He is a creative player who is capable of creating goal-scoring opportunities and runs at defenders to create chances.

In addition, he is a hardworking player who is not afraid to put in the extra effort to help his team to victory.

44. Andrei Girotto

Andrei Girotto is a professional soccer player from Brazil. He currently plays for Al-Taawoun, a club in the Saudi Pro League. Girotto is a versatile player who can play both defender and defensive midfielder positions.

He has been an integral part of his team in the past and has been praised for his defensive abilities. Girotto began his professional career in 2013, when he signed with Red Bull Brasil.

He stayed with the club for two years, before moving to Saudi Arabia to join Al-Taawoun in 2015. Since then, he has been a mainstay in the team’s defense.

Girotto was an important part of Al-Taawoun’s championship win in 2019 and was awarded the team’s Most Valuable Player award for his contributions. Girotto is known for his physicality and tackling ability.

He is a strong defender who is adept at reading the game, and he is reliable when it comes to stopping opponents from getting to the ball.

He is also a great passer and is capable of making accurate passes over long distances. Overall, Andrei Girotto is an excellent player who is a great asset to Al-Taawoun. He has proven himself to be a dependable player and a leader on the pitch.

With his vast experience, Girotto is sure to be a valuable member of Al-Taawoun for many years to come.

45. Óscar Duarte

Óscar Esaú Duarte Gaitán is a professional footballer who is currently playing for the Saudi Professional League club Al-Wehda.

He was born in Nicaragua and has represented the Costa Rica national team in international competitions. Duarte Gaitán is a center-back, which is a defensive position in football that is responsible for stopping the opposing team from advancing and creating scoring chances.

He is an experienced and reliable defender, having played for many teams in both Europe and Central America before joining Al-Wehda in 2018. Duarte Gaitán has also been part of the Costa Rica national team since 2011, playing in two CONCACAF Gold Cups and one FIFA World Cup.

He was a key member of the Costa Rica team that reached the 2014 World Cup quarter-finals and has been a regular starter since then. The Nicaraguan-born defender is a highly respected and experienced player, and his presence in the Al-Wehda team is an asset for the club.

He is an important part of the team’s defense, and his experience and reliability are invaluable.

46. Gustavo Cuéllar

Gustavo Leonardo Cuéllar Gallegos is a prominent figure in the world of football. He is a Colombian professional footballer and currently plays as a midfielder for Al-Shabab, a Saudi Professional League club.

He is also a part of the Colombia national team, where he has earned a great reputation as a formidable midfielder. His prowess on the field is evident from his impressive performances both with his club and his national team.

Cuéllar started his footballing career at a very young age, representing Colombia at the youth level. He has since then gone on to establish himself as a key figure in the Colombian football scene.

He has also played for several top clubs in Colombia, including Deportes Tolima and Independiente Medellin. Cuéllar has been a part of the Colombia national team since 2015 and has made several appearances in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers and other international tournaments.

He is known for his passing ability and eye for goal, as well as his ability to control the midfield.

With Al-Shabab, Cuéllar has continued to impress, becoming an integral part of the club’s success in recent seasons. Overall, Gustavo Leonardo Cuéllar Gallegos is a highly talented footballer who has made his mark at both the club and international level.

He has the ability to control the midfield and make an impact on the pitch with his passing and goalscoring ability, making him one of the most sought after midfielders in the world..

47. Sami Al-Jaber

Sami Abdullah Al-Jaber is an iconic figure in Saudi Arabian football. He is a former professional player who made his name as a striker, as well as a current football manager.

Throughout his career, Al-Jaber was solely affiliated with Al-Hilal, one of the most successful and popular football clubs in Saudi Arabia. During his time there, he became a beloved figure among the team’s supporters and was renowned for his skillful play.

However, in 2003, Al-Jaber made a brief break from his beloved Al-Hilal team by joining English club Wolverhampton Wanderers on a five-month loan.

Despite the short period of time, this was an exciting experience for Al-Jaber, as he was able to showcase his talent on a global stage and gain more exposure in the football world. Since retiring from his professional playing career, Al-Jaber has moved into management.

He has had a successful stint as the head coach of Al-Hilal, leading the team to a number of championship titles and honors. His legacy as a player and manager will continue to live on in Saudi Arabian football for many years to come.

48. Alfa Semedo

Alfa Semedo Esteves is an accomplished professional footballer from Bissau-Guinea. He currently plays as a midfielder for Al-Tai, a Saudi Arabian club, as well as the Guinea-Bissau national team.

As a midfielder, Semedo Esteves has the ability to dictate the play of his team from the center of the field. He can move the ball forward to create scoring chances, as well as defend by intercepting passes and recovering loose balls.

His skill and determination have made him a key member of both the club and national teams. His presence on the pitch is invaluable as he is able to provide stability and leadership to his teammates.

With Semedo Esteves in the team, Al-Tai and the Guinea-Bissau national team have a chance to be successful in their respective competitions.

49. Gonzalo Nicolás Martínez

Gonzalo Nicolás Martínez is a professional footballer from Argentina who is better known as Pity Martínez. He has been playing as an attacking midfielder for Al Nassr in the Saudi Professional League since his most recent transfer.

Pity Martínez is an experienced and talented player who has been part of many successful teams in his career. He is known for his incredible passing ability and his ability to create scoring chances for his team.

He is also known for his creative dribbling and his ability to beat defenders with his skill. Pity Martínez has been a key player for Al Nassr and has been a major contributor to their success.

He has been a crucial part of the team’s attacking play and has been a leader on the field. Pity Martínez has been an integral part of Al Nassr’s recent success and his presence in the team has had a major impact on their results.

Conclusion

The Saudi League has some of the best players in the world. Over the years, these players have been consistently performing at a high level, helping their teams to success both domestically and internationally.

The competition between the players is fierce, which makes it exciting for fans to watch. With the top-notch talent on display, the Saudi League has earned its reputation as one of the best football leagues in the world.

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Andrew Kovacs

I am a Head Boys Soccer Coach at Amherst Regional Public Schools in Massachusetts. I have coached for the past five years and I am currently working on my master's degree in Exercise Science. I coach soccer because I love the game and I enjoy being around the kids. It is rewarding to see them develop their skills and grow as individuals. LinkedIn