The Saudi Pro League (SPL) has become a toast of top flight players in recent times. A look at the nationalities of current players in the Saudi Arabian League shows that three Nigerians are currently plying their trades there. Who are they?
Odion Ighalo
The most prominent among the trio is Odion Jude Ighalo. This former Manchester United striker moved to Al-Shabab in February, 2021 and switched to Al Hilal the following year. The highest point of his career in the gulf country was in the 2021/22 season when he won the SPL golden boot with 24 goals. The win was somewhat dramatic as he netted 12 times each at the two clubs above within the season. In a quest for fresh challenge, the former Super Eagles star moved to Al-Wehda on August 15, 2023. Ighalo's first goal for his new club came on his debut as he netted under 6 minutes of coming in against Al-Tai on match day 2 of the Saudi top flight.
Anthony Nwakaeme
Another Nigerian that in this category is Anthony Nnaduzor Nwakaeme. This winger joined Al-Fayha as a free agent last summer. He was deployed as a centre-forward in his first season of action in the SPL. However, he was only able to score 9 goals in 25 appearances. The former Turkish champion has only played for 45 minutes this season.
Henry Onyekuru
The most recent addition to Saudi top flight from "the giant of Africa" is Henry Chukwuemeka Onyekuru. This right-footed winger joined his compatriot in Al-Fayha on August 11, 2023. The former Greek and Turkish champion has featured in 4 games for the SPL outfit this season. However, he has only played 226 minutes out of the available 360 minutes of the season so far.
What do you think about these Nigerian forwards?
wopcdlosty
9
Credit to CR7... Xavi went to play in Qatar but no one even became interested with The Asian cup. China brought many players during their mega investment in soccer but they attracted less good players. Saudi league invested a lot since 5 yeaes ago despite that many players did not show enthusiasm to go there. Immediately the GOAT went there then Boom... Migration to Asia.. Lets admit CR7 is the GOAT. Haters are Always there. Cr7 is successful and forever remain the Great. We love and support him despite his other unpleasant characters.