Idrissa Gueye has joined Saudi Pro League side Diriyah Club after leaving Everton, sending a heartfelt message to supporters. The midfielder, who turns 37 next month, has signed a one-year deal with an option for a second season.
New chapter in Saudi Arabia
Diriyah, based on the northwestern outskirts of Riyadh, are newly promoted to the Saudi top flight after finishing third in the First Division last season and winning promotion via the play-offs. The club's sporting director is Dougie Freedman, formerly of Crystal Palace, and they are coached by ex-Ajax boss Alfred Schreuder.
Writing on X, a Diriyah statement said: "Idrissa is one of ours. His experience is an asset."
Heartfelt message to Evertonians
Gueye took to Instagram to address his 2 million followers, saying: "Dear Evertonians, no need for speeches or long stories. You already know. A huge thank you to you all, and see you soon. True love. UTT. Once a blue, always a blue."
Gueye originally joined Everton from Aston Villa in 2016 when the club activated his £7.1 million release clause. His first spell lasted three years before he moved to Paris Saint-Germain, but he returned to Goodison Park in 2022. In total, he made 236 appearances for the Blues and scored 10 goals.
Last summer, Gueye signed a new one-year deal with an option for an additional 12 months, but he did not play enough games to activate that clause. On June 10 this year, Everton announced they were continuing to liaise with his representatives over his future, but on July 24 they confirmed he had left the club.
