Iliman Ndiaye’s father shuts down Al-Hilal rumours with Ballon d’Or ambition

Iliman Ndiaye will not be leaving Everton for Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, according to his father, who has firmly dismissed reports linking the Senegal international with a lucrative move this summer.

Speculation surrounding the 26-year-old intensified after reports claimed he had rejected several contract offers and was considering a switch to Saudi Arabia. However, Mouhamadou Abdoulaye Ndiaye insists there is no truth to the rumours, revealing that his son remains fully committed to continuing his career in Europe.

“Many people called me to tell me that Iliman was going to leave. But rest assured, he is not going anywhere.”

The Everton forward, who joined the Merseyside club from Marseille in 2024, has become one of the Premier League side’s key attacking players. Across all competitions, he has made 64 appearances, scoring 17 goals and providing three assists.

‘He has no intention of going to Saudi Arabia’

Ndiaye’s father disclosed that he had spoken to his son and even joked with him about the transfer speculation before receiving a clear response regarding his future.

“He called me this morning. I even teased him with a few words in Arabic, and we laughed about it. He let me know that he had no intention of going to Saudi Arabia.”

While acknowledging the financial rewards on offer in the Saudi Pro League, he stressed that his son’s priorities remain centred on sporting success rather than a lucrative payday.

“He knows he can earn a lot of money there, but he also believes that his level may decline.”

“He is not the type to prefer money over his career.”

The comments will come as welcome news for Everton, who have already fended off significant interest in the Senegal international. Last summer, the club reportedly rejected an enquiry from Inter Milan worth around £40 million, and any future bid is expected to require a considerably higher offer.

Ballon d’Or dream still driving Senegal star

Beyond club football, Ndiaye’s father revealed that the forward’s ambitions extend far beyond financial gain, with success for both club and country remaining at the heart of his plans.

“He’s not the type to prioritise money over his career. His goal is to win another Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal, win the World Cup, and one day become a Ballon d’Or winner. That’s what motivates him today.”

The ambitious targets underline why Ndiaye is determined to continue competing at the highest level of European football as he enters the prime years of his career.