Nigeria defender Ashleigh Plumptre has officially joined Saudi club Al-Ittihad on a free transfer, marking her departure from Leicester City. This exciting transfer has created a buzz in the world of women’s football.

Plumptre, who showcased her exceptional skills during all four of Nigeria’s matches at the Women’s World Cup, stands out as one of the most high-profile signings in the Saudi Women’s Premier League. Her journey to becoming a key player for the Saudi club is set to be an exciting one.

A former age-group international with England, Plumptre made a monumental decision to switch her allegiance to Nigeria in 2022. This change in national representation has added a unique dimension to her career.

Expressing her enthusiasm for this new chapter, the 25-year-old Plumptre stated, “[I am] excited to start this journey alongside some incredible human beings.” Her passion and dedication to the game are sure to shine through in her performances on the pitch.

Plumptre’s impact on the field is undeniable, having started all but two of Leicester’s Women’s Super League (WSL) games last season, even as the team finished 10th in the league. Her consistent and impressive performances have earned her a place in the spotlight.

Taking charge of Plumptre’s journey at Al-Ittihad is Kelly Lindsey, a former US international who recently left her role as head of performance at Lewes FC. Under Lindsey’s guidance, Plumptre is expected to reach new heights in her football career.

It’s worth noting that the Saudi Pro League has made headlines with its high-profile signings in the recent transfer window, including stars like Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante joining Al-Ittihad. These marquee signings have sparked discussions about Saudi Arabia’s intentions and its reputation in the world of sports.

While the country has made strides in developing its sports infrastructure, concerns over human rights persist. Saudi Arabia faces criticism for its lack of women’s and LGBTQ+ rights, along with its use of the death penalty for same-sex sexual activity, which is illegal and potentially punishable by death.

Saudi Arabia’s journey in women’s football began in 2020 when it launched its first women’s football league, two years after women were first allowed into stadiums in the kingdom. However, activists argue that more progress is needed to address gender equality in sports.

Notably, Al-Ittihad was among the four Saudi clubs taken over by the country’s Public Investment Fund earlier this year, signaling a growing investment in sports in the region.

Peter Hutton, a member of the Saudi Pro League board, emphasized the rapid changes in the role of women in Saudi society, particularly in football development. Hutton highlighted the increase in schoolgirls playing football, the rise in women coaches, and the evolution of women’s football as part of societal change, making it an appealing project.

Saudi Arabia’s women’s team achieved another milestone by entering the FIFA world rankings for the first time earlier this year. Additionally, the country is actively bidding to host the 2026 Women’s Asia Cup, demonstrating its commitment to promoting women’s football on the global stage.