Explore the biggest foreign signings in the Saudi League 2025 and their massive impact on football in the region.

Saudi League’s Biggest Foreign Signings in 2025

The Saudi Pro League has continued its meteoric rise in Changi77 global football. Once seen as a post-retirement destination, it has now become a serious footballing powerhouse, attracting top talent from around the world. In 2025, the trend of high-profile foreign signings has not only continued but intensified—signaling the league’s ambition to compete with Europe’s elite.

From Brazilian flair to European experience, the Saudi League’s clubs have opened their wallets to secure some of the most recognizable names in world football. These signings have brought more than just skill—they’ve elevated the visibility, competitiveness, and tactical sophistication of the league.

Let’s dive into the biggest foreign signings in the Saudi League for 2025, and what each player has brought to the table.

🌍 1. Kevin De Bruyne – Al Hilal

• Former Club: Manchester City

• Transfer Fee: Free (end of contract)

• Position: Midfielder

At 34, Kevin De Bruyne may not be in his prime, but his vision, passing, and leadership are unmatched. His arrival at Al Hilal signaled the club’s intent to dominate not only domestically but also in the AFC Champions League. He’s already notched up double-digit assists in the first half of the season.

🧠 Tactical Impact: Unlocks low blocks, dictates tempo, and orchestrates transitions.

⚡ 2. Federico Valverde – Al Nassr

• Former Club: Real Madrid

• Transfer Fee: €70 million

• Position: Box-to-box Midfielder

At just 26, Valverde’s move from Real Madrid shocked fans across the world. Known for his incredible energy, defensive work rate, and ability to score from range, he’s been a perfect complement to Cristiano Ronaldo in midfield.

🔥 His arrival brought balance to an Al Nassr side filled with attacking flair.

🇧🇷 3. Gabriel Jesus – Al Ahli

• Former Club: Arsenal

• Transfer Fee: €50 million

• Position: Forward

Al Ahli secured a coup with Gabriel Jesus, whose Premier League experience and versatility made him an instant star. He’s already bagged 10 goals and 7 assists, and his movement has revitalized Al Ahli’s attacking play.

🔁 His ability to play across the front three offers tactical flexibility.

🇩🇪 4. Ilkay Gündoğan – Al Ittihad

• Former Club: Barcelona

• Transfer Fee: €12 million

• Position: Central Midfielder

Gündoğan brings maturity and leadership to a youthful Al Ittihad squad. A Champions League winner with Man City, he’s now wearing the captain’s armband and dictating play from deep.

📊 Stats: 92% pass accuracy, 3 goals, 5 assists in 14 matches.

🧤 5. David de Gea – Al Ettifaq

• Former Club: Free Agent

• Transfer Fee: Free

• Position: Goalkeeper

After a year without a club, De Gea returned to the pitch in style. Signed by Steven Gerrard’s Al Ettifaq, his shot-stopping ability and composure have turned the club into defensive stalwarts.

🛡️ Al Ettifaq has the second-best defensive record in the league—largely thanks to him.

🎯 6. Paulo Dybala – Al Shabab

• Former Club: AS Roma

• Transfer Fee: €35 million

• Position: Attacking Midfielder/Forward

Dybala brought his trademark creativity and flair to the Saudi League, quickly becoming a fan favorite. With his signature left-footed curls and dribbling wizardry, he’s brought a new identity to Al Shabab’s attack.

👁️ Already has 6 Goal of the Week awards.

🇫🇷 7. Benjamin Pavard – Al Hilal

• Former Club: Inter Milan

• Transfer Fee: €40 million

• Position: Right-back/Center-back

Al Hilal needed defensive reinforcements, and Pavard was the perfect fit. His ability to play multiple positions and tactical intelligence have made him a key cog in Jorge Jesus’s defensive system.

🔒 Clean sheets have skyrocketed since his arrival.

🌍 8. Achraf Hakimi – Al Nassr

• Former Club: PSG

• Transfer Fee: €60 million

• Position: Right Wing-Back

Hakimi adds unmatched pace and width to Al Nassr’s setup. Known for his overlapping runs and crossing accuracy, he’s already created 6 goals for Ronaldo and Sadio Mané.

🚀 Widest heatmap coverage among defenders this season.

🇧🇪 9. Yannick Carrasco – Al Fateh

• Former Club: Al Shabab (loan return)

• Transfer Fee: Permanent deal, €15 million

• Position: Left Winger

Carrasco’s speed, flair, and counter-attacking prowess have made Al Fateh a dangerous underdog. His ability to take on defenders one-on-one brings balance to a team that thrives on transitions.

💥 4 goals, 4 assists in 9 games.

🇧🇷 10. Alex Telles – Al Nassr

• Former Club: Manchester United (previously signed but impactful this season)

• Position: Left-back

Telles has evolved into one of the most reliable full-backs in the Saudi League. His link-up play with attacking midfielders and dead-ball delivery have made him a key figure in Al Nassr’s rise.

📐 Most accurate crosses per game: 3.1

🌟 Impact Beyond the Pitch

These signings have:

• 💰 Boosted TV rights and global broadcasting deals

• 📈 Increased jersey sales and club sponsorships

• 🌎 Helped expand the Saudi League’s international footprint

Saudi clubs are no longer just signing aging stars—they’re signing peak performers with tactical value and global appeal.

🧠 What This Means for the League

The 2025 foreign signings are redefining:

• Squad building strategies

• Youth development standards

• Coaching philosophies

Most importantly, they are attracting global fans who now see the Saudi League as a legitimate destination for elite football.

📣 Support the Evolution of the League

As fans, this is the time to rally behind the rapid evolution of the league. Whether you’re a supporter of Al Hilal, Al Ahli, or an international fan discovering the Saudi League for the first time:

➡️ Watch the matches. Share the moments. Back your team.

The league is growing—and you can be part of this football revolution.