Kheira Hamraoui, a former French international player, has recently joined the Saudi Women's Premier League, signing with Al-Shabab. This move comes after a tumultuous incident in November 2021 when Hamraoui was attacked by two masked men, allegedly orchestrated by Aminata Diallo, who aimed to take Hamraoui's place in the PSG team. Diallo and five others were arrested by French police in September 2022 and charged with aggravated assault and criminal conspiracy.
Following her departure from PSG, Hamraoui briefly played for Levante UD before moving to Saudi Arabia, where she played for Al-Nassr. Despite the challenges she faced, Hamraoui has now joined Club America in Mexico, seeking a fresh start away from the past turmoil.
The Saudi Women's Premier League has been attracting notable players, with clubs like Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad making significant signings. Foreign players such as Clara Luvanga, Ghada Ayadi, and Leighanne Robe have added international flair to the league. The 2023/2024 season featured 54 foreign players from 24 countries, showcasing the league's growing appeal.
In the upcoming 2024/2025 season, the league continues to make headlines with new signings like Sara Björk and Kathellen Sousa. Björk, an Icelandic midfielder, joined Al-Qadsiah, while Sousa, a Brazilian defender, signed with Al-Nassr. These additions, along with Hamraoui's arrival, promise an exciting season ahead for women's football in Saudi Arabia.
The league's growth reflects a broader trend of increasing interest and investment in women's football globally. With a diverse mix of talent from different countries, the Saudi Women's Premier League is poised to continue its upward trajectory, providing a platform for female players to showcase their skills and contribute to the development of the sport.
