Saudi Arabia: Idrissa Gana Gueye joins Al-Diriyah

He reunites with Sadio Mané and Khalidou Koulibaly

Africa Today at 17:21

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Saudi Arabia: Idrissa Gana Gueye joins Al-Diriyah

Idrissa Gana Gueye is opening a new chapter in his illustrious career.Free after his departure from Everton, the Senegalese midfielder has officially signed with Al-Diriyah, newly promoted to the Saudi Pro League this season. The 2021 Africa Cup of Nations champion has inked a one-year contract with an option for a further season.

Idrissa Gana Gueye is now an Al-Diriyah player. His arrival brings invaluable experience as the club prepares to compete in the top tier of Saudi football for the first time. Under the guidance of Portuguese manager Bruno Lage, the club is counting on the pedigree of the former Paris Saint-Germain, Everton, and Lille midfielder to anchor the center of the pitch and help the team adapt to the demands of top-flight competition.

A career built at the highest level

Trained at Diambars FC in Senegal, Gana Gueye made his name in Europe with LOSC Lille. With the northern French club, he won both Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France in 2011 before continuing his rise at Aston Villa.

His relentless work rate and energy soon earned him a move to Everton in 2016. After three seasons with the Toffees, he joined Paris Saint-Germain, where he added two Ligue 1 titles and several domestic cups to his résumé. Gueye returned to Everton in 2022 before parting ways with the English club this summer.

Throughout his journey, the Senegalese star has forged a strong reputation as a defensive midfielder, admired for his dynamism, stamina, and ability to balance a team. His extensive experience in the Premier League, Ligue 1, and European competitions is now a major asset for Al-Diriyah.

The African champion reunites with old teammates

This Saudi adventure carries a special significance for Gana Gueye. He will be reunited with two other pillars of Senegal’s golden generation: Sadio Mané and Khalidou Koulibaly.

The trio were key figures for the Senegalese national team, helping lead the Lions of Teranga to their historic Africa Cup of Nations triumph in 2021. Their simultaneous presence in Saudi Arabia also marks a new chapter for this celebrated generation as they embark on the next phase of their careers.

Sadio Mané currently plays for Al-Nassr, while Kalidou Koulibaly dons the colors of Al-Hilal. Gana Gueye thus joins a league that has become a destination for several seasoned African stars seeking new challenges.

A new mission at 36

With 135 caps for Senegal and a wealth of international experience, Gana Gueye arrives at Al-Diriyah as more than just a marquee name. He is expected to bring his leadership, expertise, and tactical intelligence to a squad taking its first steps in the Saudi Pro League.

After winning silverware in France, conquering Africa with Senegal, and playing at the highest European level for years, the Senegalese midfielder embraces a fresh challenge: to put his experience at the service of an ambitious club while extending an already remarkable career at the age of 36.