The Saudi Pro League will enter a new dimension next season with the arrival of a number of world stars, including some African players. Here, we take a look at some of the African players who are making their mark in Saudi Arabia.
Africans shining in Saudi Arabia
With impressive investment from the Saudi Arabian government, the Saudi Pro League is set to become the new Eldorado of world football in the coming weeks. After Cristiano Ronaldo's spectacular signing by Al Nasr after the World Cup in Qatar, it is now Karim Benzema's turn to join Al Ittihad. These stars of world football will be joining African players who are putting in spectacular performances in Saudi Arabia.
Abderrazak Hamdallah (Morocco)
While waiting to play alongside Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema, who has just signed for Al Ittihad, Abderrazak Hamdallah has established himself as the Saudi Pro League's best striker. The Moroccan international had a great season in the league, and was an important part of Al Ittihad's title-winning run to the Saudi Arabian championship. The 32-year-old scored 21 goals in 26 games, making him the League's top scorer. Far from having laid down his arms with the signing of Karim Benzema, the Atlas Lion is ready for competition. "We are great players and the competition between us is within the team," he maintained.
Odion Ighalo (Nigeria)
The goalscoring talents of Nigeria striker Odion Ighalo (37 caps) remain intact. Top scorer at the 2019 CAF Africa Cup of Nations, the Super Eagle has established himself as one of the best players in the Saudi Pro League. At 34, he is Al Hilal's top scorer with 19 goals.
Knowledge Musona (Zimbabwe)
Knowledge Musona, the Zimbabwean playmaker who specialises in set-pieces, is having a great time on the Saudi pitch. With Al Tai, he excels as a pass distributor. With 9 assists this season, he is the 3rd best passer in the league. A complete player in his own right, he is just as effective in the final third, scoring 8 goals in 29 games played.
Fayçal Fajr (Morocco)
When it comes to consistency, Fayçal Fajr is the one everyone is talking about. The 34-year-old Moroccan international is the custodian of Al Wehda's play. At the heart of the game, the Atlas Lion (3 goals, 8 assists) is enjoying his time in the Saudi Pro League. Recently, he expressed his desire to return to the national team. "I'm giving my all at my club to earn the trust of the national coach. I may be 34 years old, but I'm still motivated to sacrifice myself for the love of the shirt I wore for several years," he confided.
Devis Epassy (Cameroon)
The public got to know Devis Epassy better after the Qatar World Cup, where André Onana was dropped by Rigobert Song after Matchday 1. He played in the Indomitable Lions' two other matches before being eliminated at the group stage. At 30, he is one of the best goalkeepers in the league. With some impressive statistics, the Cameroonian has made almost 4 saves per game this season.
