Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has revealed that her decision to extend her contract with Al Ittihad Ladies was driven by passion, purpose, and a deep connection to the club’s vision beyond football.
The 27-year-old, who joined the Jeddah-based side from Leicester City in 2023, said the renewal was more than a career choice; it was about continuing a project she believes in and contributing to the growth of women’s football in Saudi Arabia.
“It’s been incredible. The fact that I extended just shows how much I enjoy my time here,” Plumptre told BBC Sport.
“I joined knowing it was a project, something I’m passionate about because I care about the people and the place that I’m at. I want to work alongside players, staff, and management to bring sustainable success.”
“Al-Ittihad’s Professionalism Sets a Standard”
Plumptre praised Al-Ittihad’s structure and culture, highlighting the club’s impressive level of professionalism.
“There’s actually a level of professionalism here that I think a lot of clubs in other leagues, even in Europe, could probably learn from,” she said.
“It’s nice to be seen as more than a footballer. I’m treated like a human being, and I want to give back to the club. Hopefully, when I do leave, I leave it in a better place.”
She also expressed gratitude to her close friend, Chloe Kelly, who publicly supported her move to Saudi Arabia despite the criticism it initially attracted.
“Chloe was one of the few who voiced her support when I made this move. She’s been one of my closest friends in football since we were kids, so that meant a lot.”
“Why I Accepted the Saudi Offer After Rejecting It”
The Nigerian international admitted she initially turned down Al-Ittihad’s offer before deciding to hear them out.
“When the offer first came, my reaction was ‘no.’ But after speaking with the coach and management, it just felt right. We barely even spoke about football; it was about who we were and what we were passionate about.”
“I visited Saudi for two days, and when I left, I thought, ‘This is where I want to be.’”
“Life Here Feels Like a Peace Bubble”
Now settled in Jeddah, Plumptre described her life in Saudi Arabia as calm and safe, comparing it favourably to her experience in the UK.
“I know players and friends who genuinely feel safer here than in the UK. A friend of mine described it as a ‘peace bubble.’ I can leave my car unlocked and walk at night without fear.”
While acknowledging that Saudi Arabia still faces cultural challenges, Plumptre insisted her experience has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Men are encouraged to treat women a certain way, and there are consequences if they don’t. I know my experience might not reflect everyone’s, but I can’t agree with some of the Western views about this place.”
“I Want to Leave a Legacy”
For Plumptre, her journey at Al-Ittihad is about impact, not just appearances.
“I joined this project because I care about helping build something that lasts. When I eventually leave, I want to know that I’ve left it in a better place for the players, the fans, and women’s football here.”
She admitted that the Saudi Women’s Premier League is still developing, with challenges such as inconsistent standards and smaller crowds, but remains optimistic.
“The standard isn’t what I’m used to in the WSL or internationally, but it pushes me to think differently and take more responsibility.”
“The facilities are great, but we still need more investment to reach the men’s level. That’s something we’re working towards.”
A Dream Fulfilled in Abeokuta
Plumptre’s pride in representing Nigeria was evident during the WAFCON qualifiers in Abeokuta, where she scored her first-ever goal for the Super Falcons in a 1–1 draw against Benin Republic.
“I’ve dreamed of this moment since I was a kid. To finally score for my country, in front of our fans, is something I’ll never forget,” she wrote after the match.
“Proud, thankful, and motivated to keep giving everything for the badge.”
From Leicester to Jeddah, Ashleigh Plumptre’s story continues to evolve, one marked by courage, conviction, and a desire to leave a lasting legacy on and off the pitch.
