Fashion Sakala got his Saudi Pro League campaign off to a flying start last weekend, assisting Al-Fayha to a 3-1 victory over Al Khaleej on his debut.
Sakala scored and provided an assist in Burtuqali’s first win of the season to take home the Man of the Match award.
The 26-year-old joined the Saudi Arabian club from Rangers FC last week on a two-year deal with an option for an extension. His move was reportedly worth in the region of a £4 million transfer fee.
Sakala left Rangers while he was arguably at the pinnacle of his career under Michael Beale. His stay in Scotland saw him score 24 goals with 15 assists in 91 appearances.
Meanwhile, Sakala told the media following his impressive debut that he is motivated to compete in the Saudi Pro League, especially now that more high-profile players are being signed by clubs in that country..
“It is exciting to play in the Saudi League,” he told SBA Sport. “And the arrival of the stars gives me more motivation to compete.”
Saudi Arabian clubs have continued to sign top players from European clubs since Al Nassar’s record-breaking signing of Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo.
Among those who have joined Saudi Arabian clubs are reigning Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Fermino, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Jordan Henderson.
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Michael Emenalo, the Saudi Pro League’s director of football, has stated that they want all of the world’s top players and that it won’t be long before it becomes a league for “exceptional players only.”
Emenalo was speaking during the opening weekend of the Pro League season.
