Watch Fashion Sakala Saudi transfer unveiling as Rangers exit prompts big bucks critics dig and 'limitless ambition'
The forward arrived at Ibrox two years ago from Oostende but now departs the club.
Fashion Sakala has been unveiled as the latest Saudi Pro League signing - as his new club takes subtle aim at the big-spending critics.
Ibrox boss Michael Beale confirmed last week that the forward would not be involved against Kilmarnock - an eventual 1-0 defeat - on the opening day of the Premiership season as he discussed a transfer. Now Rangers have confirmed that Sakala has left the club to take up an offer at Al-Fayha, having reportedly turned down a move to the club earlier this summer.
The 26-year-old joined the club in 2021 from Belgian side KV Oostende, and went on to score 24 goals with 15 assists in 91 matches. He leaves with a Scottish Cup winners' medal to his name. Sakala announced his Rangers exit on Monday night but now has revealed why he's gone to Saudi Arabia, with the club including a dig at the nation's top flight in the English press, including a headline that reads 'Saudi Pro League is dangerous upstart in football's new era. Sakala has delivered a clear response: "A vision like no other nation. Where limitless ambition and rising aspiration drive us forward.
"Everybody is talking about it. I am proud to be part of it, I am Fashion Sakala, Al-Fayha is my destination."
Beale said of the departing forward: “Fashion Sakala was a hugely popular person in our squad and played an important role in the team from the moment I arrived as manager. On the pitch, he scored and assisted a number of goals, whilst off the pitch his infectious personality and natural enthusiasm made him an outstanding teammate.
“He departs the club for a very good opportunity in Saudi Arabia and everyone at Rangers wishes Fashion and his family every success in the future. He leaves Rangers with a lot of friends and a big good luck from all the staff and players. He will always be welcome back at Ibrox in the future.”