Premier League veteran Abdoulaye Doucoure joins Saudi side NEOM FC

Saudi Pro League newcomers NEOM FC have secured the signature of Malian midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure, adding proven Premier League experience to their squad ahead of the new season.

The club announced the signing on their official X account with the message: “Premier League experience meets our squad — Abdoulaye Doucoure joins NEOM Sports Club.”

خبرة البريميرليج في فريقنا 💪

عبدالله دوكوري في #نادي_نيوم_الرياضي ✔️

Premier League experience meets our squad 🔝@abdoudoucoure16 joins #NEOMSportsClub 🤩 pic.twitter.com/UDTrrwVGFZ

— نادي نيوم الرياضي (@NEOMSportsClub) August 15, 2025

Doucoure, 31, enjoyed a long and successful spell in England, representing Watford and Everton over several seasons. He made 278 appearances in the Premier League, scoring 36 goals and providing 25 assists.

The Malian international began his career at French side Rennes before moving to Watford, where he later spent a short loan stint at Spanish club Granada. He joined Everton in 2020, becoming a key figure in midfield until the expiration of his contract this summer.

Doucoure’s arrival continues NEOM’s ambitious recruitment drive following their promotion to the Saudi Pro League after winning last season’s First Division (Yelo League) title. The club has already brought in high-profile names, including goalkeeper Marcin Bułka and French striker Alexandre Lacazette.