Édouard Mendy: ‘I didn’t leave Chelsea chasing Saudi Arabia money’

Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy has hit back at those who criticised his move to Saudi Arabia as having been influenced by the chase for more money.

The Al-Ahli FC shot- stopper told the BBC that assertions that he and top players flock to the Saudi Pro League for money was wrong.

The 33-year-old challenged that he moved to the Saudi Arabian side in 2023 because he stood more chances of winning trophies than at Chelsea.

“Al-Ahli’s project came along and they made me feel I had a big role to play,” he said.

“Two years later, we won the Champions League for the first time in the club’s history. So yes, that validates my choice. And I hope the coming years will validate it even more.”

He added: “Some people will quickly jump to conclusions and say the only reason is money. From the start, I always said that when I left Chelsea, I knew I was joining another team where I could win everything – which was no longer the case at Chelsea.”

The 33-year-old helped the Blues to win the 2021 UEFA Champions League under Thomas Tuchel. However, the African star took many by surprise when he signed for Al-Ahli two years later.

The 2021 Africa Cup of Nations winner played a big role to help Al-Ahli claim the 2025 Asian Champions League. Chelsea struggled after the exit of big-name players such as Mendy but now the rebuilding is gaining momentum.

Under Enzo Maresca, the Blues won 2025 UEFA Conference League.