Saudi Arabia has emerged as a significant destination for footballers seeking an escape from the relentless competitive demands of European football, yet still finding opportunities to perform at a higher level. This trend is particularly notable among strikers, with numerous examples across many clubs in this Saudi League. Perhaps the most striking case is that of Ivan Toney, who now leads the league's scoring charts with 19 goals in 19 appearances.

The English forward, after three strong seasons at Brentford, opted for a move to Al-Ahli SFC in 2024, where he has transformed into the team's most potent attacking threat. He bagged 30 goals in 44 games last term and is on course to surpass that tally this season, with 27 in 30 appearances. He has already notched 19 in the domestic competition, dominating the scoring charts. These averages paint a starkly different picture from what he might achieve in Europe today.

His final stint in the Premier League was overshadowed by an eight-month ban for betting offences. From May 2023 to January 2024, Brentford were without his services. Indeed, he struggled to regain his rhythm in the latter half of that campaign, leading to his decision that summer to leave England for Saudi Arabia.

Julian Quinones follows a similar trajectory. The Colombian forward, who enjoyed a significant spell in the Mexican League with Tigres, Atlas, and America, departed the Liga MX after scoring 21 goals in 48 matches last season. He signed for Saudi club Al-Qadsiah FC and has already netted 22 goals in his second campaign, with 18 coming in just 17 league appearances. He has found the net in nine of his last ten games.

Roger Martinez also made a significant impact in Mexico. With previous stints at Racing (Argentina) and Villarreal, he left La Academia during his second spell in 2024 to join Al-Taawoun. Despite playing for a less prominent club, the Colombian has already notched 15 goals in 19 league appearances. This already marks his best professional season in terms of goalscoring.

Ivan Toney

Achievements