5 Brilliant Players in the Qatar Stars League Who Could Still Shine in Europe

The Qatar Stars League (QSL) continues to attract top-tier talent, showcasing footballers who could easily compete on Europe’s biggest stages.

From Champions League winners to emerging stars, these players elevate the league’s profile while leaving fans wondering what they could achieve back in Europe.

Here are five standout players lighting up the QSL and proving they’re a level above the competition.

1. Julian Draxler

Club: Al Ahli SC
Achievements: Multiple Bundesliga and Ligue 1 titles

After making his mark in the Bundesliga with Schalke 04 and VfL Wolfsburg, Julian Draxler joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2017, where he won several Ligue 1 titles. In September 2023, Draxler surprised many by moving to Al Ahli SC in Qatar.

The German midfielder has been sensational, contributing 12 goals and assists in just nine appearances this season. His performances show he remains a class act, and many fans believe he still belongs on Europe’s grandest stages.

2. Marco Verratti

Club: Al-Arabi SC
Achievements: Nine Ligue 1 titles, Euro 2020 winner

Marco Verratti, the Italian midfield maestro, joined Al-Arabi SC in September 2023 after over a decade of dominance with Paris Saint-Germain. Known for his vision and passing accuracy, Verratti remains one of the most technically gifted players in world football.

Reports suggest that Premier League giants, including Manchester United, Liverpool, and Arsenal, were keen on signing him during the summer transfer window. Though he’s excelling in Qatar, a return to Europe might still be on the horizon.

3. Luis Alberto

Club: Al-Duhail SC
Achievements: Over 300 appearances and 79 assists for Lazio

Luis Alberto, once the creative force at Lazio, moved to Al-Duhail in 2024. The Spanish playmaker continues to dazzle, averaging a goal contribution every 90 minutes in Qatar.

Known for his incredible vision and ability to unlock defenses, Alberto’s departure from European football feels like a loss for the beautiful game. With a contract running until 2027, a return to Europe seems unlikely—but fans can dream.

4. Akram Afif

Club: Al-Sadd SC
Achievements: Qatari international superstar

A homegrown talent, Akram Afif is the pride of Qatar. The 28-year-old winger is in the form of his life, averaging a goal contribution every 49 minutes this season.

Despite a brief stint with Villarreal in Spain, Afif never got a fair shot in Europe. Now, as he enters his prime, it might be time for a top European club to take a chance on this electrifying player.

5. Joselu

Club: Al-Gharafa SC
Achievements: Copa del Rey winner, former Real Madrid forward

After a strong season with Espanyol and a brief return to Real Madrid in 2023, Joselu moved to Al-Gharafa SC in June 2024. The 34-year-old striker continues to showcase his scoring prowess, netting eight goals in 18 appearances.

Despite his age, Joselu’s clinical finishing and experience suggest he could still thrive in a European league.

Conclusion
These seven players bring incredible quality to the Qatar Stars League, but their talent sparks conversations about their potential impact in Europe’s top leagues. Whether they stay in Qatar or make a move back to Europe, they remain a joy to watch.

Which of these stars would you like to see at your favorite club? Let us know in the comments!