Quincy Owusu-Abeyie has called on fellow Ghanaian international Mohammed Kudus to resist interest from Saudi Arabia and instead continue his development at a top-tier European club.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Africasoccer, the former Arsenal forward expressed concern over reports linking Kudus with a move to the Saudi Pro League, insisting the 24-year-old still has much to achieve in Europe.
Kudus, currently at West Ham United, has been the subject of growing transfer speculation, with sources suggesting that Al Nassr are keen to secure his signature in the upcoming window.
“With all due respect to the Saudi League, which is growing rapidly and attracting big names, I believe Kudus still has a lot to offer at the highest level in Europe,” said Owusu-Abeyie. “He has the talent and potential to become one of the continent’s top players. A move now would be premature.”
Kudus has enjoyed a productive season with the Hammers, featuring in 27 matches across all competitions and contributing three goals and two assists.
The versatile midfielder joined West Ham from Dutch side Ajax, where he had impressed with his creativity and goal-scoring instincts. His 2022–23 campaign saw him rack up 13 goals and six assists in 45 appearances.
Owusu-Abeyie, who earned 17 caps for Ghana during his playing days, believes Kudus should aim higher — with Europe’s elite clubs likely monitoring his progress.
“At his age, he should be playing for a club competing regularly in the UEFA Champions League,” he said.
“There are clubs like Arsenal and Manchester United who could benefit immensely from a player like him. Moving to Saudi Arabia now would be taking a step back.”
The former winger’s remarks come as Kudus’s stock continues to rise, not just in club football but also with the Ghanaian national team.
Kudus has established himself as a key figure for the Black Stars, earning 49 caps and scoring 13 goals while adding four assists in international competitions.
Owusu-Abeyie’s opinion echoes that of other prominent voices in Ghanaian football. Former defender John Paintsil recently suggested that Kudus should remain with West Ham for the time being, further highlighting the belief that the Premier League remains the ideal platform for his continued growth.
Kudus’s ability to operate across the attacking line — as a forward or an attacking midfielder — has made him a prized asset, and his dynamic style has suited the physical demands of English football.
As the transfer window approaches, West Ham are reportedly open to a sale if the price is right, adding further intrigue to his future.
For now, Kudus remains a central figure in David Moyes’s plans as West Ham push for European qualification.
But as the lure of lucrative contracts in Saudi Arabia continues to attract high-profile names, Kudus faces a critical decision — one that could shape the trajectory of his career.
Owusu-Abeyie, however, is clear in his advice. “He should think long-term. Europe is where the best develop and prove themselves. Kudus still has unfinished business there.”
