Ivan Toney Outshines Ronaldo in Saudi Pro League Goal Race

Ivan Toney Sets New Benchmark in Saudi Pro League

Ivan Toney’s move to the Saudi Pro League has become one of the talking points of the footballing year, as the England striker has impressively outscored Cristiano Ronaldo this season. After making his mark in the Premier League, Toney is now reshaping perceptions of Middle Eastern football, thriving amid stiff competition and breaking records along the way.

Ivan Toney’s Saudi Pro League Journey

Ivan Toney’s journey from the Premier League to the Saudi Pro League began with a high-profile transfer in August 2024. After netting 20 goals for Brentford during the 2022-23 Premier League season, Toney drew attention from numerous European giants but was lured to Al-Ahli with a lucrative £40 million offer. Since his move, Toney has found the net 56 times in 72 appearances, quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s most dangerous strikers.

Following Cristiano Ronaldo’s Footsteps

Inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo’s switch to Saudi Arabia in 2023, Toney admits he was initially unsure about the level of football in the Saudi Pro League. However, Ronaldo’s presence and the arrival of other world-class players convinced him to take a closer look. “I didn’t know too much about the Pro League, but once Ronaldo moved here, it opened my eyes,” Toney shared. “After my first training session, I realized the standard was much higher than people assumed. Every player here can play, and it’s a tough league.”

Topping the Scoring Charts Ahead of Ronaldo

Recently, Toney surpassed Ronaldo at the top of the Saudi Pro League goal charts with a stunning hat-trick, further cementing his status as a star in Jeddah. His contributions helped Al-Ahli clinch the Asian Champions League title last season, and the club now sits third in the league, level on points with Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr and just behind leaders Al-Hilal.

Saudi Pro League Quality vs Premier League Standards

Toney has confidently addressed comparisons between the Saudi Pro League and the English Premier League, challenging the narrative that his move was a step down. “People criticize without really knowing what it’s like. I’ve played in the Premier League and I know quality when I see it. If Al-Ahli played in England, we’d finish quite high on the table,” he stated. Toney has formed a potent partnership with former Premier League stars like Roberto Firmino and Riyad Mahrez, further raising the competitive standard.

England World Cup Hopes Remain Alive

Toney’s prolific form has reignited discussions about his potential inclusion in England’s 2026 World Cup squad. His aspiration is to back up captain Harry Kane at the global tournament. “Strikers often get labeled as lucky when they score, but it’s all about anticipation and hard work,” Toney explained. “I believe in my abilities, and with the right teammates, I can deliver anywhere.”

Mentality and Motivation in the Saudi Pro League

The striker credits his success to relentless work ethic and the challenge presented by the league. “You must be in the right mindset every week, or you’ll get left behind. There’s no room for complacency here,” Toney emphasized. Despite skepticism, he insists that the Saudi Pro League is underestimated and that many of its players could excel in Europe’s top leagues.

Key Insights: Ivan Toney and the Future of the Saudi Pro League

Toney’s journey illustrates the evolving reputation of the Saudi Pro League. Not only has he adapted to a new footballing culture, but he has also thrived, proving that the league can attract and nurture top international talent. With Al-Ahli firmly in title contention and Toney leading the scoring charts, the English striker’s Middle Eastern adventure continues to turn heads worldwide.

For more news and in-depth football analysis, visit for more news.

Opinion: Toney’s Move Is a Game-Changer for English Talent

Ivan Toney’s success story in Saudi Arabia could set a precedent for other English players considering moves outside Europe’s traditional power leagues. His ability to adapt, excel, and break records demonstrates that the Saudi Pro League offers genuine opportunities for career growth and international recognition. It may only be a matter of time before the league is universally recognized as a top-tier destination.