Ivan Toney eyes Premier League return, World Cup with England

The former Brentford forward moved to Al Ahli for a shock 40 million pounds transfer in August 2024, leaving some questioning whether his England ambitions could survive the switch.

Toney, 29, has more than justified the move on the pitch. In his debut season, he scored 30 goals across all competitions, finishing second only to Cristiano Ronaldo in the race for the Saudi Pro League golden boot. Al Ahli enjoyed a successful campaign, winning both the Asian Champions League and the Saudi Super Cup, with Toney at the heart of their attack.

Reflecting on his time in Saudi Arabia, Toney told Sky Sports: "I'm comfortable here and like being here. I'm doing well, my numbers speak for themselves and I'm settled. I'm enjoying my football and don't see why I'd leave to go back to where I was." While he has turned down offers from Premier League clubs, he added, "Never say never… you never know what's around the corner."

Toney's ambitions also extend to the international stage. Having earned seven England caps, the striker is eager to stake his claim for a World Cup spot in the United States, Canada, and Mexico this summer under Thomas Tuchel. "It would be a dream to play there," Toney said. "Everybody dreams of that, and imagine if we were to win the World Cup? That would be for the country… It would be a big blessing."

Acknowledging Harry Kane as England's first-choice striker, Toney is ready to provide support as a backup, confident that his scoring form could earn him a place in the squad. "My job is to keep scoring goals and hopefully that gives me the best chance of being there," he explained. He also noted a potential edge in the World Cup's hot conditions: "I've played in 30-plus degrees here, so I feel adapted to it. Maybe that's an advantage for me compared to others."

Despite leaving the Premier League behind, Toney insists he remains hungry for goals and recognition. "Yes, I'm on a big salary, but I still want to be doing well. I want to achieve big things," he said. His focus on performance, both domestically and internationally, suggests that Toney is not just enjoying life in Saudi Arabia - he is making it count.