Ashleigh Plumptre, the Super Falcons defender, has opened up about her journey from England's Women's Super League to the Saudi Women's Premier League. Initially hesitant about the offer from Al-Ittihad in 2023, Plumptre sought a project that valued her both as a footballer and as a person.
Her contract with Leicester City was ending, and she wanted more than just a transfer. After visiting Jeddah and meeting with the club's management, she felt a genuine sense of vision and sincerity. "It wasn’t about money," she told BBC Sport. "It was about purpose." This led her to make history as the first player to move from England’s Women’s Super League to the Saudi Women’s Premier League.
Life in Saudi Arabia: Peace and Perspective
Now settled and having extended her contract with Al-Ittihad, Plumptre says Saudi Arabia is far from the stereotypes often painted in Western media. "Life here is peaceful and surprisingly calm," she said. "I feel safer and more at ease than I did in the UK."
Controversy and LGBTQ+ Fans
Her move wasn’t without controversy. The 27-year-old admits she lost the trust of some LGBTQ+ fans who felt betrayed by her decision. "That was difficult," she reflected. "I understand their feelings, but my move doesn’t mean I support everything about the country."
Building the Saudi Women's Premier League
On the pitch, Plumptre knows there’s work to do. The league still faces challenges, from low attendance to a gap in experience between foreign and local players. Yet she remains optimistic. "The standard isn’t what I was used to, but we’re building something special."
With Saudi Arabia dreaming of hosting a Women’s World Cup, Plumptre’s message is clear: real progress takes time. "The focus should be on growth—step by step, the right way." She emphasizes the importance of building a sustainable foundation for women's football in the region.
Plumptre's journey highlights the evolving landscape of women's football and the personal choices athletes make in pursuit of their careers and values. Her story encourages a more nuanced understanding of life in Saudi Arabia and the potential for growth in its women's sports sector.