Former Super Eagles defender Michael Emenalo says he is leaving the Saudi Pro League satisfied with the progress made during his three-year spell, insisting the competition is now well placed for the future, Footynaija.com reports.
According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Emenalo will step down as the league’s Chief Football Executive at the end of his contract. The former Chelsea technical director also leaves his position as head of the Player Acquisition Centre of Excellence after helping oversee one of the biggest periods of growth in Saudi football.
Since taking up the role in 2023, the former Nigeria international played a major part in the league’s recruitment drive, which attracted several high profile players while also shifting attention towards signing younger talent and building stronger football structures for the years ahead.
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Reflecting on his time in Saudi Arabia, Emenalo said the work done behind the scenes means more to him than any single signing.
“When I joined the SPL’s transformation journey in 2023, what struck me most was the audacity of its ambition. We set out to do something few believed possible, on a timeline fewer still thought realistic.”
The 59 year old added that laying a solid foundation was his biggest achievement.
“This foundation is, to me, the achievement that matters most. There is still work to be done, but I believe I leave our league on a strong footing, well positioned for continued success.”
Emenalo also thanked the Saudi Pro League, club presidents and football development staff for their support throughout his stay, describing the experience as both rewarding and memorable.
The Athletic reports that the former Super Eagles defender is keen to spend more time with his family after leaving Saudi Arabia, with interest in his services already emerging from clubs across Europe.
