Al Diriyah Shock Al Ahli With Idrissa Gana Gueye Signing ⚽🔥
Al Diriyah, the newly promoted club to the Saudi Pro League, have made a major statement in the summer transfer market by securing the signing of Senegalese midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye, the former Everton star, despite strong interest from Al Ahli.
The deal comes as part of Al Diriyah’s efforts to build a competitive squad ahead of their first season among Saudi football’s elite, with the club aiming to add experienced players capable of handling the challenges of the Saudi Pro League. ⭐
📝 Al Diriyah Reach Agreement With Senegal Star
Al Diriyah have reached a final agreement with Idrissa Gana Gueye to join the team on a one-season contract as a free agent after his Everton deal expired at the end of last season.
The Senegalese midfielder brings extensive European experience, making him a valuable addition for the Saudi club, especially as newly promoted teams usually need players with leadership and strong technical abilities.
Al Diriyah believe Gueye’s defensive qualities and tactical intelligence will provide important balance in midfield. 🏆
🔴 Al Ahli Lose Key Midfield Target
Al Ahli had identified Idrissa Gana Gueye as one of their main transfer targets during the summer window, with German coach Matthias Jaissle looking to strengthen the midfield department with an experienced player.
The club’s interest came amid uncertainty surrounding French midfielder Enzo Millot, whose future has become a subject of discussion due to his limited role in Jaissle’s plans.
After missing out on Gueye, Al Ahli are now focusing on other options, with French midfielder Manu Kone, currently at Roma, emerging as one of the club’s main targets.
🌍 A Successful European Career
Idrissa Gana Gueye has enjoyed a long and successful career in European football. He started his senior career with Lille after being promoted to the first team in 2010, where he developed into one of France’s promising midfielders.
In 2015, he moved to Aston Villa before enjoying a successful spell with Everton, becoming one of the Premier League club’s most important midfielders thanks to his defensive abilities and ball-winning skills.
He later joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2019, where he competed in domestic and European competitions before returning to Everton in 2022.
His experience in the Premier League and Ligue 1 makes him a valuable addition for any team, especially with his tactical awareness and leadership qualities.
⭐ Gueye’s Numbers Before Joining Al Diriyah
During his final season with Everton, Idrissa Gana Gueye played 25 matches across competitions, scoring two goals and providing three assists.
He also represented Senegal in all four matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, delivering solid performances despite not registering any goals or assists.
The 38-year-old midfielder still possesses valuable experience and remains capable of making an impact through his positioning, discipline, and tactical understanding.
🔥 Al Diriyah Prepare Strongly for Saudi Pro League Challenge
The signing of Idrissa Gana Gueye reflects Al Diriyah’s ambition to make a strong impression in their first Saudi Pro League campaign, as the club looks to combine experience and ambition in its squad.
Meanwhile, Al Ahli continue their transfer activity in search of alternatives to strengthen the midfield ahead of a highly competitive new season.
With the transfer window still active, Saudi football fans are waiting for more major moves that could reshape the competition in the Saudi Pro League. ⚽✨
