Ivan Toney Surpasses Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Pro League

Ivan Toney has taken the Saudi Pro League by storm, scoring more goals than Cristiano Ronaldo this season and making headlines as England’s World Cup hopeful. The former Brentford striker’s journey from the Premier League to the Middle East is a testament to his ambition, resilience, and belief in his own abilities.

Ivan Toney’s Move: From Premier League Star to Saudi Pro League Sensation

Ivan Toney’s rise began in the Premier League, where he netted 20 goals for Brentford during the 2022-23 season. His outstanding form attracted attention from top English clubs, but a high transfer fee kept him from making a domestic switch. In August 2024, Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli swooped in with a lucrative offer, sealing a £40 million ($55 million) move.

Since arriving in Jeddah, Toney has thrived. With 56 goals in 72 appearances, he has quickly become a fan favorite and a central figure in Al-Ahli’s attack, even eclipsing the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo in the scoring charts. His recent hat-trick not only took him to the top of the league’s Golden Boot race, but also highlighted his ability to adapt and excel in new environments.

Saudi Pro League: Toney’s Perspective on the Competition

Toney’s transition to the Saudi Pro League was influenced by the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo in 2023 and the influx of high-profile players that followed. “I didn’t know too much about the Pro League, but then Ronaldo moved here and a few others followed. When the option came around for me to move, I dived deeper into it,” Toney told The Mirror.

Upon joining Al-Ahli, Toney was surprised by the caliber of football in Saudi Arabia. “Even though they are not all players that are well known, they can all play football. The standard is high. I’ve played in the Premier League. I should know,” he emphasized. Toney believes that many players in the Saudi Pro League could still compete in England’s top flight, and he’s quick to dismiss any notion that his move represents a step down in quality.

Chasing the Golden Boot and Silverware

Toney’s scoring prowess has put him at the forefront of the Golden Boot race, ahead of Ronaldo and other big names. His contributions have not only powered Al-Ahli to third place in the league—level on points with Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr—but also helped the club secure Asian Champions League glory last season. “You have to be on it every week, because if you’re not, you get pushed over. You have to be in the right mindset,” Toney said.

His experiences alongside former Premier League stars like Roberto Firmino, Riyad Mahrez, and Edouard Mendy have further validated the league’s competitiveness. Toney insists that if Al-Ahli played in the Premier League, they would fare well against England’s elite.

Ivan Toney and England: World Cup Dreams

With his outstanding form in Saudi Arabia, Toney has set his sights on a place in England’s 2026 World Cup squad under Thomas Tuchel. Drawing inspiration from captain Harry Kane, he hopes to be a reliable backup or even partner for the national team. Toney dismisses the idea that his success is merely down to luck, pointing to his own anticipation and positioning as key factors.

“In the past year, I’ve felt a real sense of anticipating where the ball could drop. People who don’t really know football would say that it’s luck, but it’s not. Strikers have the hardest job in football,” he explained, referencing the scrutiny faced by top scorers like Kane and Erling Haaland. Toney’s self-belief and work ethic have driven his continued success, regardless of the league or opposition.

Saudi Pro League vs Premier League: The Quality Debate

The debate over the standard of the Saudi Pro League compared to the Premier League continues, especially as more high-profile players make the switch. Toney, having played and succeeded in both leagues, is uniquely qualified to weigh in. “People might kill it, no problem. But I know my teammates, and I know their qualities,” he said, expressing unwavering confidence in Al-Ahli and the Saudi league as a whole.

Looking Ahead: Toney’s Ambitions and the League’s Growth

With Al-Ahli preparing to face table-topping Al-Hilal, and Toney’s name firmly in the Golden Boot conversation, the future looks bright for both player and club. Toney’s journey is not only a personal triumph, but also a symbol of the Saudi Pro League’s rapid growth and increasing global appeal.

For more news and the latest updates on world football, visit for more news.

Opinion: Toney’s Move is a Win for Player and League

Ivan Toney’s decision to join the Saudi Pro League has proven successful for his career and for the league’s reputation. Surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo in the scoring charts sends a clear message that the Saudi Pro League is a competitive destination for top talent. If Toney’s form continues, his World Cup dreams may very well become reality and further cement the league’s status on the global stage.