Ivan Toney’s Impact in Saudi Arabia and Future Prospects

Ivan Toney has made an impressive transition to life in Saudi Arabia, demonstrating that he has not come to the region to wind down in the twilight of his career. In just 30 matches, Toney netted 23 goals in the league, falling only two short of Al-Nassr’s Cristiano Ronaldo. Supported by teammates Riyad Mahrez and, until recently, Roberto Firmino, Toney has led an Al-Ahli squad that not only competed fiercely with domestic rivals but also triumphed in the AFC Champions League. This season has commenced similarly, with Al-Ahli already claiming the Saudi Super Cup. Toney’s exceptional form, with 11 goals in 15 matches across all competitions, has significantly bolstered his influence within the team, making any talk of a January transfer unthinkable within the club’s management.

Al-Ahli’s director, Rui Pedro Braz, promptly addressed the swirling rumors regarding Toney’s potential exit. He stated, “Ivan Toney is a top player, a top striker. The rumors surrounding his possible exit in January are not grounded in reality. It’s simply untrue. We are counting on him, and it makes no sense to discuss this topic in November.”

Meanwhile, Tottenham has found its attacking options severely limited due to persistent injuries to Dominic Solanke and Randal Kolo Muani. January seems poised to become a frantic search for reinforcements, with Toney, who is familiar with Thomas Frank’s coaching style, considered a viable solution. Frank holds the England international in high regard, but given Braz’s comments, it appears that the Danish manager will need to explore alternative options in the market.

Manchester United has also shown interest in Toney since his move to Saudi Arabia. The urgency for a forward has increased due to an injury to Benjamin Sesko. However, talkSPORT’s Ben Jacobs indicated that a move to Old Trafford is not imminent. He remarked, “I believe there have been links with Tottenham due to the Thomas Frank connection, but I am not aware of any current approach from Spurs. While some have mentioned Manchester United, they seem to be relying on Benjamin Sesko, and they also have Matheus Cunha available to play at No. 9. If Joshua Zirkzee were to leave, there could be room for another striker at Old Trafford.”

Before his venture in Saudi Arabia, Toney had scored 36 goals in 83 Premier League appearances for Brentford, with a standout performance of 20 goals in the 2022/23 season.

Reflecting on his decision to depart from Brentford, Toney shared in December 2024, “Upon my arrival, I found the training facilities impressive, the stadium appealing, and the quality of the team commendable. While many may view this league differently, I entered it with the understanding that it maintains a high standard. I sought something unique; this opportunity presented a different culture, which I can adapt to seamlessly. Having previously played at Peterborough and Brentford, I am thrilled about this new chapter in my career, believing it to be the right move at this point.”

However, with the 2026 World Cup approaching, Toney reportedly feels that a return to English football would strengthen his case for inclusion in the national squad under Thomas Tuchel, who has not selected him recently. Toney’s international journey began in 2023, highlighted by his first goal against Belgium in 2024 and an appearance in Euro 2024, where he assisted Harry Kane’s extra-time winner against Slovakia and scored a penalty against Switzerland. Yet, in 2025, he has been absent from the last three England camps, with his only minutes coming in a 3-1 defeat to Senegal. Presently, Toney’s path back to the Premier League appears obstructed, and unless circumstances change dramatically, he may continue to score goals for Al-Ahli long after January 2026.