“I engaged in talks with multiple clubs spanning the UK, US, and Europe, when my father brought up interest from a team in Saudi Arabia.”
“Initially, I was surprised and instinctively declined, but I chose to investigate the possibility further.”
Ashleigh Plumptre in discussion with Blessing Demehin during extra time of England vs Nigeria at 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brisbane” width=”1024″ height=”682″ class=”size-large wp-image-172822″ />
Since its professionalization in 2022, the Saudi Women’s Pro League has allowed clubs to sign up to six foreign players. Mirroring the trend sparked by Cristiano Ronaldo‘s high-profile transfer to Al-Nassr in late 2022, the men’s league has attracted a wave of top European talent still in their prime years. Despite the league’s reputation for offering attractive salaries, the Super Falcons defender emphasized that financial incentives were not her chief reason for making the move.
“I had a detailed conversation lasting about an hour with the coach and two management officials. Afterwards, I told my dad, ‘I have a really good feeling about this,'” Plumptre revealed.
“Surprisingly, our talk barely revolved around football; instead, we connected over shared interests and values.”
“I usually rely on my gut, but I wanted to immerse myself in the environment. After spending a couple of days there, I felt a sincere bond and thought, ‘This is where I belong.'”
While playing for Leicester, Plumptre was actively engaged with the club’s LGBT fanbase. Her decision to join a Saudi club, a nation known for its conservative stance on LGBT issues, drew criticism and sparked controversy.
“The backlash, especially after my arrival here, was intense and difficult to cope with.”
“Some remarks from people in Leicester made me feel as though I had changed into someone they no longer recognized.”
“I realize some felt hurt because they saw me as a symbol of something that made them feel marginalized. It’s hard to articulate.”
“My transfer doesn’t mean I endorse everything linked to it.”
Experiencing Safety in Saudi Arabia
When questioned about her feelings of security in Jeddah compared to the UK, the former Notts County player responded candidly:
“Many international players, along with visiting family and friends, have remarked that they feel safer and more relaxed here than in the UK.”
“One friend and I likened it to being inside a ‘calm bubble.'”
“For example, after a shopping trip, I had so many bags that I left my car running, doors unlocked, and keys inside while I carried everything upstairs to my apartment.”
“In the UK, I would never consider leaving my car like that, but here, it feels completely secure.”
“Of course, I remain cautious when walking at night, but I don’t constantly feel the need to look over my shoulder.”
“This is my personal perspective and may not apply to everyone, but based on my experience, I challenge some Western stereotypes about this region.”
Although Jeddah provides a safer atmosphere for women, Plumptre acknowledged that the competitive standard of the Saudi Women’s Pro League is still evolving compared to England’s WSL.
“I won’t pretend the level matches what I’m used to in the WSL or international fixtures, and I was initially concerned about how this might impact my development as a player.”
“A teammate, Francisca Ordega, reminded me that here in Saudi Arabia, we have to raise our standards.”
“The pace isn’t as fast, so it demands different tactical thinking and pushing beyond previous boundaries. There’s a heavier individual responsibility.”
“When I first arrived, we shared gym facilities with volleyball and basketball teams.”
“Now, we’ve moved into the former men’s gym. The men’s team has relocated to a new complex, but we have our own medical clinic, ice baths, and locker rooms.”
“Our training sessions take place on the main pitch, separate from the men. Initially, the pitch conditions were subpar, but after raising concerns, improvements were made.”
Currently, Plumptre is dedicated to nurturing the growth of women’s football culture in Saudi Arabia, playing a role in the wider progression of women’s sports. Her vision aligns with Saudi Arabia’s goal of hosting a Women’s World Cup in the near future.