The Saudi League has been in the spotlight a few times this season. We've had Cristiano Ronaldo's big money move, rumours of Lionel Messi following him, and the shocking Saudi Arabian victory over Argentina in the World Cup.
Made up of 16 teams, the race for the title is going down to the wire with Ronaldo's Al-Nassr chasing down Nuno Espirito Santo's Al-Ittihad. With all the attention, it's likely this is the most anticipated Saudi TOTS we've ever had, so read on for all the information you will need.
Table of Contents
When Is It Released?
The Saudi TOTS is set to be released on May 14th at 18:00 BST. This will mark the third minor league TOTS, following the Eredivisie and the EFL TOTS.
How Many Players Are Included?
This isn't set in stone, but we're expecting anywhere between 9 and 16 players. EA hasn't shown a pattern so far, so for now, it's just guesswork.
Who Have We Predicted?
Despite all the big-name signings in Saudi’s top league, it’s safe to say its popularity hasn’t yet reached mainstream Europe’s audiences. Which, as you can guess, makes predicting these teams slightly difficult. Have no fear though, as we’ve got 11 names that we think could receive a TOTS card this year.
Defenders
GK David Ospina
The first of many ‘remember him?’ players that now find themselves in the Saudi Pro League, ex-Arsenal goalkeeper Ospina is currently playing for second place Al-Nassr.
RB Sultan Al-Ghannam
Another Al-Nassr player, Al-Ghannam came off the bench in Saudi Arabia’s famous win over Argentina in the 2022 World Cup.
LB Ghislain Konan
The third Al-Nassr player on this list (we’ve included different teams we promise), the Ivory Coast international is coming to the end of his first season in the Saudi Pro League and has racked up 4 assists so far.
CB Ali Al-Bulaihi
Famous for screaming in the face of Lionel Messi during that famous match during the World Cup, the experienced centre-back has had a solid season at the back for Al-Hilal
Midfielders
CAM Kaku
A Paraguayan international that has overcome several severe injuries to establish himself as an attacking gem in the Saudi Pro League.
CM Fayçal Fajr
The 34-year-old Moroccan centre-mid has managed 6 assists and 3 goals this season for Al-Wehda FC. Side note, can we talk about how incredible their badge is?
CDM Berat Özdemir
In a league of quality attackers, it’s usually the players doing the dirty work that get overshadowed the most, Özdemir being one of them. Could offer a nice link to the Turkish League TOTS that will be released in the future.
LM Salem Al Dawsari
An experienced Saudi Arabian winger that always seems to be on EA’s radar, with 3 special cards already this season. Don’t be shocked to see them make it a fourth.
Attackers
ST Odion Ighalo
Another ‘Remember Him?’ player, the ex-Manchester United striker returned to the Saudi Pro League following his loan spell with the Red Devils, tallying 18 goals already this season.
ST Anderson Talisca
At this point a FIFA legend, it’s very likely we see another Talisca TOTS card this year. His 16 goals in 19 games is quite frankly an insane record, especially considering his new strike partner…
ST Cristiano Ronaldo
Yes, of course, he’s going to be in the team, let's be honest. CR7 is scoring almost a goal a game in Saudi Arabia and is bringing the World’s eyes on to a league not many were paying attention to beforehand. It’s likely he’s the main reason you even clicked on this article to begin with.
Full Team
Overall we think this has the potential to be a great team with plenty of top-end cards to improve your teams. While cards might appear difficult to link, things might be slightly easier with the consistently popular Al-Owairan to boost your chemistry.