The future of Iliman Ndiaye could be written far from the Premier League. The Senegalese international is on the radar of several Saudi clubs, an interest that reflects the new direction of the Saudi Pro League: attracting players in their sporting prime, not just stars in the twilight of their careers.
The Koulibaly factor
One element could weigh on Ndiaye's thinking: Kalidou Koulibaly already plays in Saudi Arabia and remains one of the pillars of the Senegalese national team. The captain's presence could ease the attacking midfielder's integration should a transfer materialise.
A Senegalese dressing room that is unravelling at Everton
The context within the English club is also particular. Everton recently lost Idrissa Gana Gueye, who was unable to reach an agreement to extend his contract. Before this departure, Ndiaye paid him a understated but significant tribute on social media:
'Thank you for everything Big Bro.'
With this separation, the club loses another Senegalese figure from its dressing room, leaving Ndiaye in an increasingly isolated position at Goodison Park.
A choice at 26: European challenge or new Saudi project?
At 26 years old, the former OM player is going through a period where major decisions are still driven as much by sporting ambition as by financial consideration. The Saudi Pro League is no longer targeting only stars at the end of their careers: it is now investing in profiles capable of performing at the highest level for several more seasons.
The Iliman Ndiaye case perfectly illustrates this strategic shift. It remains to be seen whether the Senegalese player will choose to take on a new challenge on the European continent or join the Saudi project that is taking shape for him.
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