Moussa Diaby Joins Al-Ittihad In £50 Million Move From Aston Villa

Aston Villa's Moussa Diaby has moved to Al-Ittihad for a reported £50 million, as confirmed by the Premier League club on Wednesday. Diaby, who joined Villa from Bayer Leverkusen, was their record signing and played a crucial role in securing Champions League football last season.

The 25-year-old made 54 appearances across all competitions, netting 10 goals. Three of these goals were scored during their Europa Conference League semi-final run. His contributions were vital in helping Unai Emery's side achieve their objectives.

Diaby expressed his gratitude to Aston Villa fans on social media. He wrote: "Villans, thank you for everything. It's time to say goodbye. I'd like to thank the club, the team members, the staff and everyone working at Aston Villa. I've always given my best to help the club and the team, we've had some great moments that will stay in my memory."

At Al-Ittihad, Diaby will join fellow French players Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kante. However, Kante has been linked with a potential return to the Premier League. Al-Ittihad finished fifth in the Saudi Pro League last season, narrowly missing out on AFC Champions League Two group stage qualification after losing four of their last six games.

In his farewell message, Diaby also said: "We've had a fantastic season, with moments of joy and happiness. Together, we've achieved our objectives. The club will be playing in the Champions League next year and I wish them success. It's a season I will remember forever. Villans, I won't forget you."

Aston Villa confirmed Diaby's departure with a tweet: "Aston Villa can confirm that Moussa Diaby has joined Al Ittihad." pic.twitter.com/9Op7QCcGdk

Diaby's move marks another significant transfer involving European players heading to Saudi Arabia's top clubs. This trend highlights the growing appeal of the Saudi Pro League as it attracts high-profile talent from around the world.

The transfer fee reflects Diaby's value and impact at Aston Villa. His departure leaves a gap that the club will need to fill as they prepare for their upcoming Champions League campaign.

As Al-Ittihad strengthens its squad with international stars like Diaby, Benzema, and potentially Kante, they aim to improve their standing in both domestic and continental competitions.

This transfer underscores the increasing financial power of Saudi clubs in attracting top-tier talent from Europe's major leagues.

Moussa Diaby’s journey from Bayer Leverkusen to Aston Villa and now Al-Ittihad showcases his growth as a player and his ability to adapt to different leagues and challenges.