Top seven favourites to win Saudi Pro League 2023-24 Golden Boot

There was a lot of spending made by Saudi clubs in summer 2023

The Saudi Pro League has taken the footballing world by storm in the 2023-24 season, thanks to a lavish summer shopping spree that brought some of Europe's biggest stars to the Middle East. The arrival of these superstars has turned the spotlight on the league, making it one of the most eagerly anticipated football seasons ever in the region. Among the many exciting storylines this season, the race for the Golden Boot stands out as a thrilling spectacle that fans won't want to miss.

While the influx of European talents has been the talk of the town, one player who has already left his mark on the Saudi Pro League is Abderrazak Hamdallah. The 32-year-old Moroccan international, who plays for Al-Ittihad, is no stranger to the Golden Boot accolade, having claimed it for the third time in the past five seasons with 21 goals in the previous term. Hamdallah is determined to defend his crown, but the competition is fiercer than ever.

Favourites to win Saudi Pro League 2023-24 Golden Boot

7. Odion Ighalo: Al Wehda

Odion Ighalo, the Nigerian national team striker, is now plying his trade with Al Wehda after leaving Al-Hilal by mutual consent at the end of the previous season. Ighalo's journeyman career has taken him to his third club in as many seasons since departing Manchester United. While he may not boast the same level of silverware as some of his peers, his experience and goal-scoring ability make him a player to watch in the Saudi Pro League.

6. Roberto Firmino: Al-Ahli

Roberto Firmino, beloved for his contributions at Liverpool, has quickly become a fan favourite at Al-Ahli. A key figure in Liverpool's Premier League and Champions League successes, Firmino is known for both his goal-scoring and playmaking abilities. In the Saudi Pro League, life is simpler for the Brazilian, with teammates like Allan Saint-Maximin and Riyad Mahrez creating ample opportunities for him to find the back of the net.

5. Abderrazak Hamdallah: Al-Ittihad

The current Golden Boot holder, Abderrazak Hamdallah, is on a mission to defend his title. Nicknamed "The Executioner" for his lethal goal-scoring abilities, Hamdallah was the top scorer in the Saudi Pro League last season with 21 goals. He shows no signs of relinquishing his crown, proving that he's not just relying on Al-Ittihad's shiny new acquisitions to make an impact.

4. Aleksandar Mitrovic: Al-Hilal

While not as decorated as some of his counterparts in terms of trophies, Mitrovic brings a formidable presence to Al-Hilal. With a towering frame and a knack for scoring with his head, Mitrovic has proven himself as a goal-scoring machine in England's second tier. He also scored 15 Premier League goals in his previous season, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess. Mitrovic is off to a flying start in the Middle East, causing headaches for defenders.

3. Sadio Mane: Al-Nassr

Sadio Mane, a two-time African Footballer of the Year, enjoyed a stellar career at Liverpool, winning numerous club trophies. However, his spell at Bayern Munich left him unsatisfied, leading him to seek a fresh start with Al-Nassr. Mane, now 31, may have lost a bit of his electric pace, but his clinical finishing with either foot remains top-notch. Partnered with Ronaldo, he forms a lethal strike duo that promises goals aplenty.

2. Karim Benzema: Al-Ittihad

Karim Benzema, another former Real Madrid legend, has made the move to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. The Ballon d'Or winner of 2022 is still playing at a high level and was on track to represent France at the World Cup before an injury sidelined him. Benzema scored an impressive 75 goals in his last two seasons with Real Madrid, and his presence in the Saudi Pro League has defenders on edge.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo: Al-Nassr

The name Cristiano Ronaldo needs no introduction. The Portuguese icon, often considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, made a significant impact on the Saudi Pro League when he joined Al-Nassr in December 2022. Ronaldo is not just a marquee signing; he's a match-winner. Despite being in the twilight of his illustrious career, he remains a clutch performer. In his half-season with Al-Nassr, Ronaldo netted 14 goals, and he's hungry for more. His leadership helped lead the Knights of Najd to their first-ever Arab Club Champions Cup triumph. Can he add the Golden Boot to his packed trophy cabinet?

The Saudi Pro League's 2023-24 season promises to be a thrilling one, with these seven stars leading the charge for the Golden Boot. As the campaign unfolds, football fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see who emerges as the top scorer in this star-studded league. Will Cristiano Ronaldo add another accolade to his illustrious career, or will a new name rise to claim the Golden Boot? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the Saudi Pro League is the place to be for football excitement this season.