Discover the standout Saudi footballers of the 2024/25 season. Explore how local talent is shaping the Saudi League with skill, leadership, and tactical intelligence.

Best Saudi Players of the 2024/25 Season

The 2024/25 season has been a defining chapter for Saudi Arabian football—not just because of superstar signings from Europe, but also due to the impressive rise and consistency of homegrown Saudi players. While global icons like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema dominate headlines, it’s the local talent that forms the foundation of the Saudi Pro League’s competitiveness and identity.

In this article, we’ll spotlight the best Saudi players of the 2024/25 season, analyzing their performances, tactical roles, and impact on both club and country. These players are not only leading their teams to victory but also symbolizing the growing maturity and depth of the Changi77.

1. Salem Al-Dawsari (Al Hilal)

One of the most consistent performers in Saudi football, Salem Al-Dawsari continues to prove his class in the 2024/25 season. Known for his technical ability, dribbling, and vision, the veteran winger has delivered in big moments, whether in domestic league games or Asian competitions.

• Goals: 10+

• Assists: 7+

• Role: Left winger, often cutting inside to shoot or create

• Tactical Insight: Operates in tight spaces and excels in high-tempo systems, often linking up with foreign imports like Neymar

His leadership and big-game mentality make him an irreplaceable asset for Al Hilal.

2. Mohammed Al-Owais (Al Hilal)

A reliable presence between the posts, Al-Owais has arguably been the best Saudi goalkeeper this season. His performances in key league matches and AFC Champions League fixtures have been vital for Al Hilal’s defensive solidity.

• Clean Sheets: Among the top in the league

• Saves per Match: High reflex saves and command of the box

• Strength: Shot-stopping, positioning, and organizing the backline

His form has helped elevate the reputation of Saudi goalkeepers globally.

3. Sultan Al-Ghannam (Al Nassr)

Al-Ghannam’s pace and endurance make him one of the best right-backs in Asia. He combines defensive discipline with offensive threat, often overlapping into the final third to deliver dangerous crosses.

• Key Attributes: Speed, crossing accuracy, tactical awareness

• Role: Wing-back in attacking setups, offering width and pressing

• Club Contribution: Major link between midfield and attack for Al Nassr

He complements Ronaldo and the foreign attackers well, maintaining tactical balance.

4. Abdulelah Al-Malki (Al Hilal)

After overcoming previous injury setbacks, Al-Malki has returned stronger this season. The holding midfielder is the anchor of Al Hilal’s midfield, known for his interceptions, ball retention, and transitions.

• Tactical Role: Defensive midfielder, shielding the back four

• Key Skills: Tackling, positioning, short passing

• Comparisons: Often likened to traditional “number 6” midfielders in Europe

His consistency allows the more attacking midfielders freedom to operate creatively.

5. Firas Al-Buraikan (Al Ahli)

Al-Buraikan continues to be one of the top emerging strikers in Saudi football. After a solid 2023/24 campaign, he has taken his form to new heights this season, proving himself as a clinical finisher and intelligent mover in the final third.

• Goals: 12+ this season

• Strengths: Off-the-ball runs, finishing, aerial presence

• Club Impact: Key figure in Al Ahli’s top-four push

His development indicates that Saudi Arabia might soon have a true number 9 for the national team.

6. Ali Al-Bulaihi (Al Hilal)

The rugged center-back is a leader in defense for both club and country. Al-Bulaihi’s no-nonsense style, combined with strong aerial ability and positioning, makes him a wall at the back.

• Defensive Metrics: High clearance and tackle stats

• Mentality: Commanding, aggressive, experienced

• Leadership: Vocal and influential in organizing the backline

He’s been crucial in keeping Al Hilal’s defensive record among the best in the league.

7. Saud Abdulhamid (Al Hilal)

Another right-back who deserves recognition, Saud Abdulhamid offers tactical versatility and relentless energy. Whether deployed as a traditional fullback or advanced wing-back, he remains effective on both ends of the pitch.

• Contribution: High work rate, pressing ability, overlapping runs

• Style: Modern fullback with a balance of defense and attack

• National Team Role: Regular starter and future captain material

He’s seen as a long-term solution on the flanks for Saudi football.

8. Hattan Bahebri (Al Shabab)

While Al Shabab has had a mixed season, Bahebri has remained a consistent creative force.

• Role: Attacking midfielder or inverted winger

• Specialty: Cutting in, playmaking, short passes in tight areas

• Leadership: Acts as a mentor for young Saudi attackers

His dribbling and decision-making often unlock stubborn defenses.

9. Mohammed Kanno (Al Hilal)

Kanno’s versatility in midfield makes him an invaluable squad member. Whether playing as a box-to-box, deep-lying playmaker, or even emergency center-back, his intelligence and work ethic shine.

• Strengths: Tactical flexibility, engine, leadership

• Set-piece threat: Useful height for attacking and defending corners

• Mental Attributes: Calm under pressure, team player

He adds balance to Al Hilal’s star-studded midfield.

10. Riyadh Sharahili (Al Ettifaq)

Under the management of Steven Gerrard, Sharahili has emerged as a key enforcer in midfield.

• Defensive Stats: High interceptions and tackles

• Physical Presence: Strong in duels and aerial challenges

• Club Form: Instrumental in Al Ettifaq’s defensive structure

He embodies the type of midfield grit essential in modern football.

Saudi Talent on the Rise

Beyond these ten, there’s a new generation of promising talent making waves in the Saudi League:

• Talal Haji (teenage prodigy breaking into Al Nassr’s first team)

• Ahmed Al-Ghamdi (a dynamic midfielder gaining attention)

• Khalid Al-Ghannam (providing energy and pace in wide areas)

These players are a testament to Saudi Arabia’s focus on youth development and strategic grooming of future stars.

⚽ Support the League and Its Local Heroes

The 2024/25 season has shown that the Saudi Pro League isn’t just a playground for international stars—it’s a platform for local talent to shine and lead. These Saudi players are proof that the league has depth, discipline, and long-term potential.

As fans, analysts, and lovers of the beautiful game, we must celebrate and support this growth.

Get behind your club, cheer for your national icons, and support the league as it carves its place on the global football map. The future of Saudi football is homegrown—and it’s brighter than ever.