In recent years, the Saudi Pro League has become a magnet for global football stars, and Nigerian players have contributed their quota to the league’s growing legacy, Footynaija.com reports.
From prolific goal-scorers to silky wingers and defensive stalwarts, these Nigerian stars have entertained fans with their performances in the oil-rich Middle-East nation.
In this piece, we take a look at the top 5 Nigerian footballers in Saudi top-flight history, ranked by their impact, achievements and consistency for their respective clubs.
5. William Troost-Ekong (Al Kholood)
The Super Eagles captain made a surprising move to Saudi Arabia in 2024 when he joined Al Kholood from PAOK Thessaloniki. During his debut season, Troost-Ekong brought stability and leadership to Al Kholood’s backline. His calmness under pressure and ability to organize the defense were invaluable, even though the club wasn’t competing at the very top of the table.
4. Anthony Nwakaeme (Al Fayha FC)
Nwakaeme joined Al Fayha FC in 2022 after a successful spell in Turkey. Widely known for his strength, pace and eye for goal, the winger quickly became a fan favourite. Nwakaeme contributed 9 goals and 3 assists in his debut season, helping Al Fayha avoid relegation and finish mid-table. His dribbling and physicality made him one of the most dangerous attackers in the league. He returned to Turkey after two seasons in the Gulf.
3. Ahmed Musa (Al Nassr)
The former Super Eagles captain made headlines when he signed for Al Nassr in 2018 from Leicester City for a reported €16.5 million, making him one of the most expensive Nigerian exports at the time. Musa scored 9 goals and provided 14 assists in his two seasons with Al Nassr. Most notably, he played a key role in helping the club clinch the 18/19 Saudi Pro League title. His blistering pace and versatility on the wing made him a nightmare for defenders, and although injuries curtailed his stay, Musa remains one of the standout Nigerians to grace Saudi Arabian football.
2. Saviour Godwin (Al Okhdood Club)
One of Nigeria’s newer exports to the Saudi Pro League, Godwin joined Al Okhdood Club in 2023 after a productive spell in Portugal. The winger has been a revelation for the newly promoted side, scoring 7 goals and registering 5 assists last campaign alone. His contributions were instrumental in helping Al Okhdood stay competitive in the top flight, often single-handedly creating chances for his teammates.
1. Odion Ighalo (Al Shabab, Al Hilal, Al Wehda)
When it comes to Nigerians in Saudi Arabia, Ighalo stands head and shoulders above the rest. The former Manchester United striker joined Al Shabab in 2021 and hit the ground running with 21 league goals in two seasons. His performances earned him a move to Al Hilal, where he took his game to another level, scoring 43 goals in 60 games to win the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot, the league title and the King’s Cup. He has since joined Al Wehda, where he is consolidating his status as a Saudi Pro League legend. With over 80 goals combined in Saudi Arabia, Ighalo is undoubtedly the most impactful Nigerian to feature in the league’s history.