Mugisha excited by new challenge after Saudi Pro League move
Wednesday, August 05, 2026
Rwanda international player Bonheur Mugisha has joined the Saudi Pro League. Courtesy

Rwanda international Bonheur Mugisha has expressed his excitement for the challenge the Saudi Pro League may bring after completing a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hazem SC.

Al-Hazem officially announced Mugisha&039;s signing on Sunday, August 2, with the midfielder set to wear the No. 17 jersey.

Although the financial details of the deal have not been disclosed, reports suggest the transfer fee is between $500,000 and $700,000 (approximately Rwf720 million to Rwf1 billion).

The Saudi Pro League has rapidly emerged as one of Asia's fastest-growing and most competitive football leagues, and Mugisha believes the move presents the perfect opportunity to test himself at a higher level.

"This is a great opportunity for me. I will be playing against some of the biggest names in football, and I think it is the right time for me to keep pushing myself and perform at a higher level," the 27-year-old told Times Sport.

While excited about the move, the midfielder acknowledged that succeeding in the league will require hard work and consistency.

"It is a good move for me, but it is also a challenge as a player because reaching the highest level is one thing, while staying there and consistently performing is another," he added.

The transfer will see Mugisha compete in the same league as global football icon Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for Saudi giants Al-Nassr.

Mugisha joins Al-Hazem after an impressive spell with Egyptian side Al Masry, where he helped the club win the Egypt Capital Cup. Despite a strong campaign, Al Masry narrowly missed out on qualification for next season's CAF inter-club competitions after finishing fifth in the Egyptian Premier League.

Founded in 1957, Al-Hazem earned promotion to the Saudi Pro League before finishing ninth in the 19-team table during the 2025/26 season.

The club is scheduled to begin its 2026/27 Saudi Pro League campaign on August 13 with an opening fixture against Abha.