Idrissa Gana Gueye has agreed to a new challenge in Saudi Arabia after signing for newly promoted Al-Diriyah on Sunday, 9 August.
The 36-year-old Senegal midfielder has joined the club as a free agent following the end of his contract with Everton. His agreement covers one season, with the option of an additional year.
Gueye brings extensive international experience to Al-Diriyah. He has made 135 appearances for Senegal and scored seven goals for his country. The midfielder has also represented Senegal at the World Cup.
His move brings to an end his spell with Everton, where he had played since the 2022-23 season. Gueye now begins a new chapter with Al-Diriyah, who have recently secured promotion.
Al-Diriyah have confirmed Gueye as the third foreign signing made by the club since moving up. His arrival adds experience to a squad preparing for its next phase and gives the newly promoted side a player with a long international career and established experience in club football.
For Gueye, the transfer represents a fresh opportunity after three seasons with Everton. He leaves the Premier League club after returning to play there from the 2022-23 campaign onwards, and will continue his career in Saudi Arabia at the age of 36.
The Senegal international’s contract is initially for one season, although Al-Diriyah have retained the possibility of extending the arrangement for a further year. That option gives both player and club the chance to continue their association beyond the initial agreement.
Gueye’s experience with Senegal is a significant part of his profile. His 135 caps and seven international goals underline his importance at national-team level, while his participation in the World Cup adds another major international achievement to his career.
He becomes the latest established foreign player to join Al-Diriyah following the club’s promotion. With Gueye now confirmed as their third foreign recruit, the Saudi Arabian side have continued to strengthen their squad ahead of their next campaign.
The transfer was completed on Sunday, 9 August, with Gueye moving to Al-Diriyah after becoming available at the conclusion of his Everton contract. His immediate focus will now be on adapting to his new club and helping the recently promoted team as it begins this new stage of its development.
