A fate Ronaldo escaped: five legends the Saudi League ruthlessly cast out
Several world-class legends have recently parted ways with Saudi Pro League clubs. We look at the stars who were forced out despite their contributions.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: YantsImages
The Saudi Pro League's recent transfer windows have been marked by high-profile exits as clubs have ruthlessly cut ties with several legends who defined the competition's historic era. While Cristiano Ronaldo remains the face of the league, others have found themselves suddenly surplus to requirements.
Karim Benzema's journey in Saudi Arabia saw a dramatic shift. After moving to Al-Ittihad from Real Madrid and winning a domestic double, contract disputes led to a move to Al-Hilal. He spent just half a season there before the club opted to release him. Similarly, Riyad Mahrez was let go by Al-Ahli despite his key role in the club's AFC Champions League Elite triumph, with the club unilaterally terminating his contract.
Franck Kessié also fell victim to Al-Ahli's restructuring. Despite his vital goals in continental finals and the Saudi Super Cup, the club chose not to renew his deal, leading him to join Atalanta. Meanwhile, Fabinho, a pillar for Al-Ittihad during their double-winning season, was released and eventually found his way to Trabzonspor in Turkey.
Marcelo Brozovic also departed the league after his contract with Al-Nassr expired following their Roshn League title win. The 33-year-old remains a free agent. In contrast, Cristiano Ronaldo continues at Al-Nassr, though he has faced calls from figures like Al-Hilal legend Sami Al-Jaber to be released due to a dip in form. Whether the Portuguese star retires at the end of this season as expected, he remains one of the few icons still standing in the kingdom.