Asisat Oshoala Seals Move To Al-Hilal In Saudi Arabia

Nigerian forward Asisat Oshoala has completed a high-profile transfer from Bay FC of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Women’s Premier League. The move, officially announced on September 2, 2025, marks the beginning of a fresh chapter for the six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year, who has signed a two-year deal with the Saudi club.

Impact at Bay FC

Oshoala joined Bay FC in 2024 during the team’s inaugural NWSL season and immediately became a key figure. She scored seven goals that year, including the franchise’s historic first-ever goal, finishing as the club’s top scorer. Her performances quickly established her as a fan favourite and a cornerstone of the attack. However, the 2025 campaign proved more challenging. The striker featured in just 12 matches, logging 458 minutes and starting only five times, without registering a goal or an assist.

Signs of Frustration

The limited playing time led to visible frustration for Oshoala. Earlier in the season, she admitted she was “not in the best place” in the league. In April, she hinted at internal tensions with a cryptic social media post, writing: “Waking up and feeling reluctant to show up to work cus of a protected somebody is draining.” Reports later suggested that attempts to facilitate a move within the NWSL were complicated by her contract’s structure, leaving a transfer abroad as the most viable solution.

Praise from Bay FC

Despite her departure, Bay FC paid glowing tribute to Oshoala. Sporting Director Matt Potter praised her professionalism and influence, both on and off the pitch, noting her role in laying the foundations for the young club. He described her as a world-class player and an outstanding person, wishing her success in her new chapter with Al-Hilal.

Al-Hilal’s Growing Profile

The move also highlights the rapid development of the Saudi Women’s Premier League, which has been attracting international stars in recent years. Oshoala now joins fellow Nigerian internationals Ashleigh Plumptre and Francisca Ordega at Al-Hilal, strengthening the team’s ambitions of becoming a dominant force in women’s football across Asia and beyond.

A Legacy of Excellence

Before her NWSL stint, Oshoala enjoyed immense success with FC Barcelona, where she lifted two UEFA Women’s Champions League trophies. On the international stage, she has been a mainstay of the Nigerian national team, most recently playing a vital role in helping the Super Falcons win their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title earlier this year. Her individual accolades, including a record six African Women’s Footballer of the Year awards, underline her status as one of the most decorated players in African football history.

What Lies Ahead

For Oshoala, the move to Al-Hilal provides a chance to reignite her career in a new environment while contributing to the growth of women’s football in the Middle East. For Bay FC, her departure leaves a significant void as the club looks to rediscover form in what has been a difficult season, currently languishing in 12th place with one of the lowest goal tallies in the league.