Ivan Toney: Saudi Pro League Rivals Premier League in Quality
In a bold assertion that has sparked discussions across the football community, Ivan Toney, the English striker currently playing for Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, has claimed that the league is “on par” with the Premier League. This statement comes on the heels of his successful first season in Saudi Arabia, where he not only showcased his scoring prowess but also contributed to his team’s triumph in the AFC Champions League.
A New Chapter in Toney’s Career
Toney made the significant move from Brentford to Al-Ahli in August 2024, signing a three-year contract. His transition to the Saudi Pro League marks a notable shift in his career trajectory, as he had previously established himself in the English football system, playing in the Premier League, Championship, and lower leagues. In his inaugural season with Al-Ahli, Toney netted an impressive 30 goals, with 23 of those coming in league play. His performance not only earned him accolades but also helped Al-Ahli secure the prestigious AFC Champions League title.
A Competitive Landscape
The Saudi Pro League has gained considerable attention in recent years, particularly with high-profile signings like Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined Al-Nassr in January 2023. Ronaldo’s own comments about the league being superior to France’s Ligue 1 have added weight to Toney’s claims. Toney acknowledged Ronaldo’s extensive experience in global football, stating, “Ronaldo has been around the world and probably knows a lot more than me.”
Toney’s confidence in the Saudi Pro League is further bolstered by Al-Hilal’s recent victory over Manchester City in the Club World Cup, a match that showcased the league’s growing competitiveness. “It is a quality league, and people should not turn their noses up,” Toney remarked, emphasizing that the standard of play in Saudi Arabia is high, even if the players may not be as globally recognized as those in the Premier League.
Toney’s Personal Achievements
In the previous season, Toney finished as the second-highest scorer in the Saudi Pro League, trailing only Ronaldo, who secured the Golden Boot for the second consecutive year. This achievement has not gone unnoticed, as Toney received a call-up to the England national team under coach Thomas Tuchel for the June internationals. However, he was omitted from the squad for the subsequent September matches, a decision that has left him focused on proving his worth ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
Reflecting on his debut season, Toney expressed a sense of accomplishment, stating, “Once I got going, the goals came.” He acknowledged that while he could have scored even more, finishing as the second-top scorer in a new league was a significant achievement. Looking ahead, Toney is determined to claim the top spot in the scoring charts this season, which he believes will contribute to his team’s success.
The Road to the World Cup
As the World Cup approaches, Toney is keenly aware of the competition for a spot on the England squad. “I have to concentrate on myself, give myself the best chance possible,” he said, indicating his commitment to performing at a high level. He remains optimistic about his chances, stating, “If I am selected, I will do my best for my country, but if not, I’ll be cheering the boys on.”
Toney’s focus on individual performance reflects a broader trend among players who have made the leap to less traditional football markets. The increasing competitiveness of leagues like the Saudi Pro League raises questions about the criteria for national team selection. Toney believes that as long as players are delivering results and scoring goals, their location should not hinder their chances of representing their country.
The Evolving Landscape of Football
The rise of the Saudi Pro League is part of a larger trend in global football, where leagues outside of Europe are investing heavily in talent and infrastructure. This shift has led to a more competitive environment, challenging the long-held belief that only European leagues can produce world-class players. Toney’s comments serve as a reminder that football is evolving, and the traditional power dynamics within the sport are being redefined.
Conclusion
Ivan Toney’s assertion that the Saudi Pro League is on par with the Premier League is a reflection of the changing landscape of football. His successful transition to Al-Ahli and impressive performance in his first season underscore the league’s growing competitiveness. As players like Toney continue to thrive in non-traditional markets, the football world may need to reconsider its perceptions of talent and quality. With the World Cup on the horizon, Toney’s journey serves as an inspiring narrative of ambition, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the beautiful game.
