French winger Moussa Diaby has officially joined Al-Ittihad, marking a significant step in the evolution of the club. The transfer, announced on Wednesday, sees Diaby leave Aston Villa after just one season, embarking on a new five-year adventure with the Saudi giants.
Diaby, who turned 25 this year, began his professional career with Paris Saint-Germain before making a notable impact at Bayer Leverkusen. His performance at Villa Park last season, where he appeared in 54 matches, netting 10 goals and providing nine assists, caught the attention of top European clubs and beyond. His move to Al-Ittihad is a testament to the club’s ambition and the increasing influence of Saudi Arabian football on the global stage.
Al-Ittihad’s acquisition of Diaby aligns with the broader trend of Saudi clubs strengthening their rosters by attracting high-profile talents. The club’s decision to invest heavily in Diaby, who is known for his pace and versatility on the wing, reflects their intention to compete at the highest levels of both domestic and continental football. The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed, but the contract duration of five years signifies a long-term commitment from both the player and the club.
This transfer also highlights the strategic vision of Al-Ittihad’s management, including the influence of new head coach Laurent Blanc. Blanc, a former French national team manager, brings a wealth of experience and familiarity with French footballers, having previously managed notable players like Karim Benzema, who is now Diaby’s teammate at Al-Ittihad. Blanc’s appointment and Diaby’s transfer are part of a broader strategy to create a competitive team capable of challenging for top honors in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
The Saudi Pro League’s rise has been notably accelerated by the involvement of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund. Last year, PIF acquired major stakes in several top Saudi clubs, including Al-Ittihad, Al Hilal, Al Nassr, and Al Ahli. This takeover has driven a significant investment in player acquisitions, with clubs collectively spending nearly $957 million in the summer transfer window alone. This spending spree places Saudi football in a strong position to rival established leagues, with high-profile signings such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Neymar making headlines.
For Al-Ittihad, the addition of Diaby complements an already star-studded lineup. The club’s squad boasts N’Golo Kante, another French international who played a pivotal role in the current Euro 2024 tournament, and Fabinho, formerly of Monaco and Liverpool. This collection of talent, combined with Blanc’s tactical acumen, sets Al-Ittihad up as a formidable force in both domestic competitions and international tournaments.
Diaby’s arrival in Spain for the club’s training camp is the latest step in his transition to Saudi football. As the Pro League continues to attract top talent and investment, Al-Ittihad’s strategic moves signify a broader ambition to establish themselves as a powerhouse in Asian and world football.
In summary, Moussa Diaby’s move to Al-Ittihad is not just a significant transfer in its own right but also a marker of the changing dynamics in global football. As Saudi Arabian clubs continue to invest in top talent, the landscape of international football is set to evolve, with Al-Ittihad playing a leading role in this transformative era.
