N’Golo Kante, a French football player, seemed to be nearing the end of his career, but his recent performances in Euro 2024 have proven otherwise. Despite moving to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ittihad last year, Kante has shown no signs of decline. In fact, he has been a standout player, creating numerous chances for his team and covering a significant distance on the field. His success challenges the notion that playing in the Saudi Pro League is a career-ending move for top players enticed by lucrative salaries.
Kante is not the only player who has defied expectations after joining a Saudi-based team. Nicolae Stanciu, who plays for Damac FC, was instrumental in Romania’s victory over Ukraine, showcasing his talent and proving that the Saudi league can be a platform for success. Even Cristiano Ronaldo, at 39 years old, continues to be a key player for Portugal while playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
Despite the success stories, not all players have thrived in the Saudi league. Some, like Aleksandar Mitrovic, have struggled to find the back of the net for their national teams despite impressive performances at the club level. Additionally, players like Ruben Neves, Georginio Wijnaldum, Yannick Carrasco, and Merih Demiral have seen limited playing time, raising concerns about the impact of the Saudi project on European football.
Critics argue that the influx of top talent to the Saudi league could have negative consequences for European football, as young players may be tempted by lucrative offers instead of developing in their home countries. The potential transfer of players like Kevin De Bruyne to Saudi Arabia further fuels these concerns, as it could set a precedent for more European stars to make the move.
Despite the debate surrounding the Saudi league, one thing is clear – the players competing in Euro 2024 from Saudi-based teams are proving that they can hold their own against top European talent. Their performances on the field speak for themselves, challenging stereotypes and showcasing the quality of football in the Middle East. Whether this trend will continue remains to be seen, but for now, it is clear that Saudi-based stars are making a significant impact on the international stage.