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Tag: Saudi Pro League

  • “I say goodbye” – Nacho bids emotional farewell to Real Madrid before Saudi move

    “I say goodbye” – Nacho bids emotional farewell to Real Madrid before Saudi move

    Nacho Fernández bid an emotional farewell to Real Madrid on Wednesday, concluding a remarkable 23-year tenure with the LaLiga club.

    The Spain international, who captained the team to a Champions League and LaLiga double last season, departed the club at the end of his contract.

    Earlier this month, he also played a crucial role in helping Spain win the Euro 2024 trophy. The 34-year-old defender has announced that he will continue his career with Saudi Pro League club Al Qadsiah.

    In a private ceremony closed to fans and media at the club house and attended by his teammates, former players and Madrid president Florentino Pérez, a tearful Nacho said: “It’s the most beautiful ending I could have imagined.

    I leave as captain and having had the honour of lifting the 15th European Cup.

    “I leave because I wanted another experience in my career and face new challenges. I want to be remembered as a youth player that gave his all to the club.

    “I have grown up for almost 24 years in the best club in the world. Real Madrid has taught me to win and lose, but above all to live. This club is everything to me. I say goodbye knowing that I have given my all for this club.”

    Nacho, who joined Madrid at the age of 10, lifted a joint-club record of 26 trophies, including six Champions League titles. He made his first-team debut in 2012.

    Pérez handed Nacho a gold and diamond badge and said: “We are proud to have had you for these past 23 years. You came here aged 10 and you have played in all of our teams.

    I want you to know that we feel the utmost pride in one of Real Madrid’s most legendary youth players I want to thank you because you have given your soul to this club. You know this is and will always be your home.”

  • Pep unsure of Ederson’s stay at Man City amid Saudi links

    Pep unsure of Ederson’s stay at Man City amid Saudi links

    Pep Guardiola has expressed uncertainty about Ederson’s future at Manchester City due to interest from the Saudi Pro League.

    Al-Ittihad is reportedly prepared to meet City’s £50 million ($65 million/€60 million) valuation of the Brazilian goalkeeper, who has already agreed on personal terms and is eager for a new challenge outside England.

    Following City’s 4-3 friendly defeat to Celtic in North Carolina, Guardiola acknowledged that he is unsure about Ederson’s next move.

    “I’d like him to stay but it depends on other clubs,” he told reporters. “I don’t know the situation. There have been no contacts in the last days. It’s a question of training, being with us until the transfer window finishes and we’ll see.”

    While it’s still unclear where Ederson will be playing his football next season, Kalvin Phillips looks set to exit City, most likely via another loan spell after a challenging stint at West Ham.

    He was hooked off at half-time against Celtic, a decision Guardiola attributed to protecting the player following his injury struggles towards the end of last season.

    “That’s why we didn’t give him more minutes,” Guardiola explained. “I don’t know what’s going to happen. He knows the situation, and we’ll see.”

    If Ederson chooses to depart, Guardiola is resolute in ensuring Manchester City are not left lacking in the goalkeeping department. Reports indicate that City have pinpointed Paris Saint-Germain’s Gianluigi Donnarumma as a potential successor.

    While City proceed with their pre-season training in the United States, the transfer operations at Etihad Stadium are in full swing. Guardiola’s remarks reveal his wish to keep the Brazilian goalkeeper, but the growing appeal of the Saudi Pro League could lead to the manager losing his primary shot-stopper.

  • Ronaldo tops list of highest paid Saudi players; earns double Neymar’s salary

    Ronaldo tops list of highest paid Saudi players; earns double Neymar’s salary

    Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly earning double that of Neymar as Saudi Pro League’s top 10 salaries have been revealed ahead of the 2024-25 season.

    Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly earning twice as much as Neymar, as the top 10 salaries in the Saudi Pro League have been disclosed for the 2024-25 season.

    Capology reports that Ronaldo tops the list with an annual salary of €200 million.

    This is double the earnings of Neymar and Karim Benzema, who each make €100 million. Following them is former Manchester City player Riyad Mahrez, earning €52.5 million.

    TOP 10 EARNERS OF THE SAUDI PRO LEAGUE
    Rank Player Wages
    1 Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr) €200m (£168m/$217m)
    2 Karim Benzema (Al Ittihad) €100m (£84m/$108m)
    3 Neymar (Al Hilal) €100m (£84m/$91m)
    4 Riyad Mahrez (Al-Ahli) €52.5m (£44m/$57m)
    5 Sadio Mane (Al Nassr) €40m (£34m/$43m)
    6 Kalidou Koulibaly (Al Hilal) €34.7m (£29m/$38m)
    7 Aleksandar Mitrovic (Al Hilal) €25m (£84m/$27m)
    8 Sergej Milinkovic-Savic (Al Hilal) €25m (£21m/$27m)
    9 N’Golo Kante (Al Ittihad) €25m (£21m/$27m)
    10 Aymeric Laporte (Al Nassr) €24.5m (£21m/$27m)

    The hefty salaries of these players highlight the Saudi Pro League’s ambition to become a leading destination for top football talent.

    As the 2024-25 season begins, several other stars, including Casemiro, Ederson, Alisson Becker, and Kevin De Bruyne, are being linked to Saudi Arabia.

    Neymar managed only five appearances for Al-Hilal in the 2023-24 season due to a severe ACL injury, earning an astounding €20 million per match.

    However, as he nears a return, Neymar is eager to meet expectations and assist his team in defending the league title.

  • A 3rd marriage ceremony for former City’s winger Riyad Mahrez

    A 3rd marriage ceremony for former City’s winger Riyad Mahrez

    Former Manchester City star Riyad Mahrez recently celebrated his third wedding ceremony with his model wife Taylor Ward, this time in Italy.

    The 33-year-old winger now plays for Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League.

    Ward had previously shared the challenges of moving from England to the Middle East, but the couple has settled into their new life.

    Mahrez proposed to Ward in 2021 with a £400,000 ring during a trip to the Greek island of Mykonos.

    They first married in a Muslim ceremony in January 2022 and then held a London-based event in September 2023.

    Their latest celebration of love took place at Villa Balbiani near Lake Como, a luxurious property featuring a swimming pool, private pier, and boathouse, providing ample space for guests to enjoy the outdoor ceremony.

    X Factor winner Leona Lewis performed at the event, where guests danced into the night.

    Ward was escorted down the aisle by her father Ashley to the song ‘You Are The Reason’ by Callum Scott, with the venue adorned with hundreds of white roses.

  • Real Madrid captain Nacho readies for Saudi move – Sources

    Real Madrid captain Nacho readies for Saudi move – Sources

    Real Madrid captain Nacho Fernández is in advanced negotiations to join Saudi Arabia’s Al Ittihad on a free transfer, sources informed ESPN’s Moises Llorens and Rodrigo Faez.

    With Nacho’s contract at Madrid set to expire on June 30, he is expected to depart the club for the first time in his career, barring any unforeseen changes.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7y3-jYgcnYE

    An ESPN source revealed that Nacho had already decided to leave by the time Real Madrid secured a 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final on June 1, where he lifted the trophy at Wembley as captain.

  • Lukaku ready for Saudi move a year after Al Hilal snub – Sources

    Lukaku ready for Saudi move a year after Al Hilal snub – Sources

    Romelu Lukaku has expressed openness to playing in Saudi Arabia, a year after rejecting a move to Al Hilal.

    The 31-year-old striker’s future remains uncertain, as sources informed ESPN that Chelsea aims to secure a permanent transfer for Lukaku after loaning him to Inter Milan and Roma over the past two seasons.

    Lukaku, who earns approximately £325,000 a week ($415,419) at Stamford Bridge, is a significant financial burden for Chelsea, who are eager to offload his salary to fund new signings.

    With two years left on his Chelsea contract, the club is reluctant to approve another loan move, seeking instead to recoup part of the £97.5 million they paid Inter Milan in 2021.

    Last summer, Chelsea accepted an offer for Lukaku to join Al Hilal, but the striker turned it down. Now, Lukaku views the Saudi Pro League more favourably, especially with the influx of high-profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema.

    Asked why he hesitated last summer, Lukaku told HLN: “Because everyone only went to Saudi Arabia after I could sign there, I was scared for a while.

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/zwrS1-1WZvY

    “[Now] Saudi Arabia would not stop me. The level there will only rise to a much higher level than many people think. More and more footballers will tend to play there.

    “Also because of how the fans there experience football. The infrastructure still needs to improve, but all the big top European clubs know: ‘Saudi Arabia is coming.’ You already see that in boxing, golf, and Formula 1.”

    Speaking about the possibility of a move this summer, Lukaku continued: “A lot of people like to talk, maybe because I don’t have an agent. But I’m going to decide. I control my situation myself.

    “I am going to make a choice and once I will explain it, everyone is going to agree with me. Look, every time I decided to stay or leave somewhere, it turned out to be the right choice because of certain factors—for example, my rapport with the coach,” Lukaku said. “It’s like a relationship with a woman. If it doesn’t click anymore, why stay together?”

    Lukaku also reiterated that he would like to end his career back in Belgium with Anderlecht, the club where he turned professional in 2006.

    “It will happen,” he said. “And much earlier than many people think. I left Belgium when I was 18.”

  • Man City’s Kevin de Bruyne open to Saudi move

    Man City’s Kevin de Bruyne open to Saudi move

    Kevin De Bruyne has expressed his willingness to consider a transfer to the Saudi Pro League (SPL), citing the “incredible” financial benefits of moving to the Gulf region.

    With one year remaining on his contract at Manchester City, the midfielder has been linked to a potential move to Saudi Arabia.

    According to a source from ESPN, De Bruyne’s agents visited 10 Saudi clubs over three days in May.

    The Belgian international has acknowledged that the lucrative offers from the SPL are tempting.

    “At my age, you have to be open to everything,” De Bruyne said in an interview with Belgian outlet HLN.

    “You’re talking about incredible amounts of money in what may be the end of my career. Sometimes you have to think about that.

    “If I play there for two years, I will be able to earn an incredible amount of money. Before that, I had to play football for 15 years. I may not even reach that amount yet.

    “Then you have to think about what that could mean next. But at the moment, I haven’t had to think about that yet.”

    He was restricted to 18 league appearances last season after missing the first five months of the campaign because of a hamstring injury.

    Now 32, De Bruyne, who has also been linked with a move to MLS, said it’s time to start thinking about his next move.

    “These are conversations that we are increasingly having as a family,” added De Bruyne.

  • More Liverpool players appear on Saudi Pro League’s wish list

    More Liverpool players appear on Saudi Pro League’s wish list

    Officials from the Saudi Pro League are reportedly considering bids for Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Joe Gomez in the upcoming transfer window.

    Following the loss of Fabinho and Jordan Henderson to Saudi Arabia last year, Liverpool anticipates further interest, with Mohamed Salah also being targeted by league authorities.

    According to reports, Saudi officials plan to alter their transfer strategy, focusing on younger talents rather than older players.

    Both Diaz and Gomez, aged 27, are viewed as potential acquisitions amid uncertainty at Anfield following Jurgen Klopp’s departure as manager.

    While Diaz’s future has been the subject of speculation, Liverpool may be inclined to sell him given his contract situation and a reported valuation of £75m.

    Gomez, on the other hand, was targeted by Saudi Arabia last summer but remained at Liverpool due to Klopp’s preference.

    With three years remaining on his contract, Liverpool retains control over Gomez’s future, though player preferences may influence decisions in the upcoming window.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cB5lNLyI9c4
  • Man City’s Ederson, a Saudi League target; decision to leave is in his hands

    Man City’s Ederson, a Saudi League target; decision to leave is in his hands

    Goalkeeper Ederson will need to request a transfer if he wants to leave Manchester City this summer, an insider told ESPN.

    Although the Brazilian has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League (SPL), City are not actively seeking to offload him.

    They will only consider offers if Ederson explicitly states his desire to exit the Etihad Stadium.

    The 30-year-old, who has been with City for seven years and won the Premier League six times, is Pep Guardiola’s unequivocal first choice, having played over 300 games since joining from Benfica in 2017.

    City’s summer plans do not include signing a new first-choice goalkeeper, but they are confident they can find a suitable replacement if Ederson decides to leave.

    Al Ittihad is among the clubs that have shown interest in him. With his contract running until 2026, City are open to negotiating an extension should Ederson choose to stay.

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/akDKHG5G3uQ

    There are also uncertainties surrounding the future of Ederson’s backup, Stefan Ortega. Ortega is entering the final year of his contract, and City risk losing him on a free transfer in 2025 if new terms are not agreed upon.

    A source revealed that City have made an offer to the 31-year-old, but it remains unsigned.

    Ortega faces a choice between continuing as the second-choice goalkeeper at City or transferring to another club for more regular first-team play.

    Guardiola values Ortega and wants him to remain, but acknowledges the possibility that Ortega might prefer to be a starting goalkeeper elsewhere.

    Meanwhile, sources have indicated that there is increasing optimism that Bernardo Silva might stay at City this summer. The midfielder has a £50 million ($66m) release clause in his contract and seeks a new challenge after seven years at the Etihad.

    Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain have previously shown interest, but Barcelona may lack the funds for the transfer, and Silva is no longer a priority for PSG.

    City are open to offers for Kalvin Phillips and are considering another loan move. The midfielder struggled during his loan spell at West Ham in the latter part of the season and has attracted interest from Everton.

  • Contract extension at 40 – Al-Nassr ready for Cristiano Ronaldo

    Contract extension at 40 – Al-Nassr ready for Cristiano Ronaldo

    Reports suggest that Cristiano Ronaldo is prepared to extend his contract with Al-Nassr, a move that would see him continue playing well into his 40s.

    Despite nearing 40, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner shows no signs of slowing down, having scored an impressive 48 goals in 47 appearances this season alone. Since joining the Middle Eastern club, Ronaldo has amassed a total of 62 goals in 66 games across all competitions.

    Ronaldo is set to reach the milestone of 40 years old in February 2025, with his current contract expiring next summer. He currently enjoys the most lucrative terms in world football, having joined Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr as a free agent following his departure from Premier League giants Manchester United.


    Al-Nassr are understandably keen to keep Ronaldo’s ability and marketing appeal on their books as they look to make more big signings this summer, with Ben Jacobs telling talkSPORT: “2025 is a really key year in Saudi Arabia for two reasons.

    One, because Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract expires, although my understanding is that he may renew for one year.

    And two, the television rights are up for renewal and, as you can imagine, in Egypt with Mohamed Salah and Portugal with Ronaldo and/or Bruno Fernandes, there could well be big audiences and lucrative renewals to be had.

    Depending on if Ronaldo stays, if Fernandes joins and if Salah arrives, and as a consequence, the next 12 months are all about planning who is going to resonate with the international audience. I am told that the Saudi dealmakers want another marquee star from Portugal because they have built up an audience through Ronaldo.

    If Fernandes comes in 2025 or, potentially but less likely, 2024 then that is a continuation which means maybe you retain that audience and cash in on that audience when the renewal comes up in 12 months time.”

    There are rumors circulating about Portuguese playmaker Fernandes potentially leaving Manchester United, with Bayern Munich also expressing interest in acquiring him.

    Meanwhile, Egypt international Salah is nearing the end of his contract with Liverpool, raising the possibility that he may need to be sold during the upcoming transfer window.

  • De Bryne ,Salah, Fernandes on Saudi Pro League’s wish list

    De Bryne ,Salah, Fernandes on Saudi Pro League’s wish list

    Saudi Pro League (SPL) teams are eyeing several Premier League stars ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window according to a source speaking to ESPN.

    Established players such as Kevin De Bruyne, Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, Alisson, Raphaël Varane, Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Andreas Pereira are reportedly targets for the next season.

    Additionally, there’s a focus on signing younger talents, including Juventus’ 20-year-old forward Matìas Soulè.

    While Saudi Arabian sources anticipate that SPL teams won’t match the record-breaking £757 million ($957 million) spent in 2023, they assert that this summer’s transfer strategy will be equally aggressive, with significant outlays on player fees expected.

    In 2023, SPL’s transfer spend ranked second only to the Premier League’s £1.1 billion ($1.39 billion).

    Specific team objectives have been highlighted, with Al Ahli seeking a striker, Al Nassr aiming for a goalkeeper, and Al Ittihad looking to strengthen their defence and midfield.

    Al Hilal, currently leading the SPL table, has made significant signings in the past, including Neymar from Paris Saint-Germain last summer. It’s worth noting that the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF) holds controlling stakes in Al Ittihad, Al Ahli, Al Nassr, and Al Hilal.

    Moreover, Al Qadisiyah, poised for SPL promotion as they top the second division, is anticipated to invest heavily. Owned by Saudi Aramco, valued at over $2 trillion, they are expected to contribute to the SPL’s growing financial muscle.

    Furthermore, the SPL aims to attract more high-profile coaches, with names like Thomas Tuchel, Sergio Conceicao of FC Porto, and Mauricio Pochettino of Chelsea mentioned as potential candidates.

  • Mourinho allegedly turns down Al Shabab offer, considers European offers

    Mourinho allegedly turns down Al Shabab offer, considers European offers

    José Mourinho has turned down an offer from Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab to take on the role of their new manager, according to a source from ESPN.

    Domenico Tite, the sporting director of the club, engaged in talks with Jorge Mendes, Mourinho’s agent, immediately after the Portuguese coach was sacked by AS Roma last week.

    Despite expressing his desire to manage in Saudi Arabia in the near future, Mourinho, who turns 61 on Friday, has opted against joining the SPL at this time.

    While he has garnered interest from European clubs, the source mentioned that Mourinho is taking his time to decide on his next move.

    Due to league regulations, he cannot manage another Italian club this season, making potential interest from clubs like Napoli a consideration for the next season.

    Mourinho, who has faced dismissal in his last five coaching positions, including Chelsea, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Tottenham, and Roma, has indicated his preference to stay in Europe, but only for the right project.

    Jose Mourinho shrug

    Al Shabab, currently 11th in the Saudi Pro League, is eager to replace their embattled manager, Igor Biscan, having won just five of their 19 league games this season.

  • Man Utd set to offer Antony and Sancho to Saudi Pro League for some funds

    Man Utd set to offer Antony and Sancho to Saudi Pro League for some funds

    Manchester United is aiming to generate £100 million by offering Antony and Jadon Sancho to clubs in the Saudi Pro League, as per reports from the Evening Standard.

    Earlier this month, Sancho left United on loan, returning to his former club, Borussia Dortmund for the remainder of the season. The 23-year-old’s future at Old Trafford seems uncertain following a notable fallout with manager Erik ten Hag.

    Antony, who made an £82 million move from Ajax in the summer of 2022, has struggled to replicate the form that justified his transfer, failing to contribute a goal or assist in any competition.

    In an effort to recoup a significant portion of the transfer fees, especially given the high wages involved, United is exploring potential deals with Saudi clubs.

    Director of Football John Murtough initiated discussions with officials from the Saudi Pro League and Saudi Ministry of Sport during the Club World Cup last month.

    The Red Devils are seeking £50 million for each player, with additional Saudi interest in Casemiro and Raphael Varane.

    However, Varane, whose contract expires in the summer, won’t be offered a new deal by United.

  • Al-Ittihad sideline Benzema from Dubai training camp after skipping sessions

    Al-Ittihad sideline Benzema from Dubai training camp after skipping sessions

    Karim Benzema has reportedly been excluded from Al-Ittihad’s Dubai training camp due to his failure to attend various club events.

    According to Marca, the French striker was required to report to the club’s facilities in Jeddah by Friday as they resumed training following an extended break.

    However, Benzema allegedly did not show up, prompting Ittihad manager Marcelo Gallardo to make the decision to remove him from the travelling squad to Dubai.

    This incident is not the first instance of Benzema’s apparent disregard for club commitments. The report highlights that the forward missed three training sessions in Jeddah at the end of 2023, just before the holiday period for the Saudi Pro League side.

    His previous conflicts with manager Nuno Espirito Santo were also well documented and contributed to the Portuguese manager’s dismissal in November. Nuno Espirito Santo has since joined Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.

    There is a growing sense in the Middle East that the Ballon d’Or winner is falling short of expectations. Benzema faced criticism for his performance against Al-Nassr and former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo on Boxing Day, where Ittihad suffered a 5-2 defeat, with Ronaldo scoring two goals and Benzema failing to find the net.

    Following widespread criticism, Benzema seemingly deleted his Instagram account.

    These recent developments raise questions about the 36-year-old’s future, with prominent European clubs seeking immediate solutions in the forward position.

    However, in the short term, Benzema is ineligible for participation in the Dubai training camp, as his absence meant he was never officially registered.

  • Saudi Pro League’s spending now on ‘highest quality’ players not just the numbers – Emenalo

    Saudi Pro League’s spending now on ‘highest quality’ players not just the numbers – Emenalo

    Saudi Pro League (SPL) clubs, having completed a substantial £784 million ($972 million) spending spree in the summer, are now focused on recruiting players of the “highest level” to join the ranks of Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema in January, according to SPL director of football Michael Emenalo.

    As the January transfer window approaches, Saudi teams, including reigning champions Al Ittihad, have been linked to potential moves for players such as Manchester United’s Jadon Sancho and Raphaël Varane.

    Al Ittihad is also expected to make a renewed effort to acquire Mohamed Salah, having seen a £150 million bid for the Liverpool forward rejected in September.

    Additionally, there were reports of a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen during the summer.

    Emenalo, the former director of football for Chelsea and AS Monaco, emphasises that the era of Saudi clubs making multiple signings in a single transfer window is now behind them.

    “Whatever additional improvement that we need to do for any club, with time on our hands and preparation, we believe will be additions of the highest level,” Emenalo said in an interview with the SPL.

    “I’m hoping it [January] is not very busy, because I think the job that was done has been quite interesting and aggressive, and most of the clubs, I believe, have what they need.

    “Hopefully the attention will now turn to work within the training facilities to improve these players and allow them time to adapt and perform.

    “I think we accomplished what we wanted to accomplish, which was to get our foot into the market and compete aggressively. But, also, we wanted to do that while giving every single club in the league an opportunity to improve. I believe we accomplished that.

    “And I believe that what you’re seeing, in terms of the quality of the games and the performance of most of the acquired international players, is a vindication that the transfer market has been relatively well. And we hope that we will continue to perfect our process in the future.”

  • Ronaldo shines in Saudi after back-to-back win of Saudi Pro League Player of the Month awards

    Cristiano Ronaldo, the star player of Al-Nassr, has secured back-to-back Saudi Pro League Player of the Month awards due to his exceptional performance in September.

    In August, the 38-year-old managed to score five goals and provide two assists for his Saudi team, earning him the Player of the Month accolade.

    He has now continued his impressive run in September, tallying another five goals and three assists. Ronaldo’s exceptional form has propelled Al-Nassr to fourth place in the league standings with six consecutive victories, rebounding from two losses in mid-August.

    Despite his advancing age, the Portuguese international continues to showcase his goal-scoring prowess.

    He not only leads the Saudi league as its top scorer with 10 goals this season but also shines as Portugal’s primary goal-getter with five goals in their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.

    Remarkably, Ronaldo has already outperformed his goal tally from the previous season with Al-Nassr, having netted 17 goals in just 16 matches, compared to 14 goals in 19 games last term.

    Ronaldo and Al-Nassr are set to face Abha in the league this Friday afternoon. Should results go in their favour later this week, they may ascend to the top of the league table.

  • Ronaldo, Mane continue with the goal scoring spree in the Saudis

    Ronaldo, Mane continue with the goal scoring spree in the Saudis

    Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mané continued their impressive form by scoring once again as Al Nassr comfortably defeated Al Raed 3-1 on Saturday.

    The former Premier League stars have now scored in four consecutive matches in the Saudi Pro League, contributing to Al Nassr’s excellent run of form.

    After losing their first two league matches, Al Nassr has bounced back with four consecutive victories, with Ronaldo and Mane playing key roles.

    Mané, who joined the Saudi Arabian League after a challenging season at Bayern Munich, opened the scoring just before halftime, while Ronaldo added to the tally late in the game.

    Ronaldo currently leads the league in goals this season with seven, while Mane has six to his name.

    In other matches, former Newcastle United forward Allan Saint-Maximin scored the decisive goal as Al Ahli triumphed over Al Taawoun in an exciting 3-2 contest.

    Steven Gerrard’s team, Al Ettifaq, also secured a win, with former Celtic striker Moussa Dembélé finding the net in a 3-1 victory over Abha.

    Al Hilal remains at the top of the league standings following this weekend’s matches, and Neymar made his debut in a convincing 6-1 win against Al Riyadh.

  • Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr, other Saudi clubs to play in Iran after travel ban lifted

    Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr, other Saudi clubs to play in Iran after travel ban lifted

    Saudi Pro League clubs are set to travel to Iran for the Asian Champions League matches, marking a significant change in the competition format.

    The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced on Monday that games between teams from Saudi Arabia and Iran would now be played on a home-and-away basis, a departure from the neutral territory arrangement that had been in place since 2016.

    This development means that Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr will commence their Asian Champions League campaign at Tehran’s Azadi Stadium on September 19, where they will face Persepolis.

    Additionally, Al Hilal and Al Ittihad will also make trips to Iran during the group stage.

    The AFC said it “welcomes the historic move” as it reflects the commitment of Saudi Arabia and Iran “towards fostering closer ties between their respective footballing communities”.

    It allows “clubs to host matches on their home turf while visiting the respective away stadiums, creating a more engaging and exciting experience for the fans and players alike”.


    In addition to Al Nassr’s upcoming visit to Tehran in Group E later this month, Al Hilal, the club that recently acquired Brazil winger Neymar from Paris Saint-Germain, is slated to travel to Tehran to face Nassaji Mazandaran in Group D on October 3.

    The Saudi champions, Al Ittihad, which includes former Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema, have been drawn to compete against Isfahan-based Sepahan in Group C.

    These two teams are scheduled to clash in Iran on October 2.

    Saudi Pro League teams have a rich history of success in the Asian club competition, with Al-Hilal securing the title four times and Al Ittihad claiming the championship in 2004 and 2005.

    On the other side, Iran’s Persepolis enjoys immense support and has played in front of crowds exceeding 100,000 at the Azadi Stadium, notably during the second leg of the 2018 Asian Champions League final when they faced Japan’s Kashima Antlers.

    The group stage is set to commence on September 18 and will run until December 13, with the knockout rounds beginning on February 12. The two-legged final is scheduled for May 11 and 18.

  • Another Sadio Mane ‘fight’ with Al-Shabab’s defender, Iago Santos, during a Saudi PL match

    Another Sadio Mane ‘fight’ with Al-Shabab’s defender, Iago Santos, during a Saudi PL match

    A scuffle erupted between Al-Nassr’s star player, Sadio Mane and Al-Shabab’s defender, Iago Santos, during a Saudi Pro League match between the two teams.

    Mane, the Senegalese star who managed to score in his team’s 4-0 victory, confronted the Brazilian defender following a tough tackle that occurred moments earlier. The situation escalated to the point where the linesman on the far side had to swiftly step in to separate Mane and Iago Santos.

    In a video circulating on social media, the two players were seen pushing each other aggressively and appearing to exchange words before the match official intervened.

    Surprisingly, both players avoided any punishment, and the game ultimately concluded with a 4-0 victory in favour of the Knights of Najd.

    Cristiano Ronaldo, the veteran forward, played a significant role in Al-Nassr’s win by scoring twice from penalty kicks, granting his team a two-goal lead before the 38th minute. Just two minutes later, Mane extended the advantage, leading the visitors into halftime with a comfortable three-goal lead.

    In the second half, Sultan Al-Ghannam added another goal, securing the victory for Al-Nassr. It’s worth noting that Al-Shabab played the final 12 minutes with only 10 players after Ever Banega received a red card, according to ESPN.

    Mane finishes off from Ronaldo’s assist
    Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Mane and Ronaldo combining once again as the Senegalese star scored yet another Saudi Pro League goal.

    The 31-year-old forward brilliantly finished off an assist from the Portuguese veteran to extend Al-Nassr’s lead to three goals against Al-Shabab.

    In addition, Sports Brief highlighted that Mane secured a Saudi League accolade for Goal of the Week, thanks to his spectacular goal in Al-Nassr’s emphatic victory over Al-Fateh in recent times.

    The ex-Liverpool forward outshined Abdul Razzaq Hamdallah from Al-Ittihad and Mateus Castro of Al-Taawoun, securing the award within his new Saudi Pro League environment.

  • Saudi Pro League sees remarkable 650% surge in revenue since Ronaldo’s arrival – League head

    Saudi Pro League sees remarkable 650% surge in revenue since Ronaldo’s arrival – League head

    The Saudi Pro League has undergone a remarkable transformation, elevating itself from its previous standing to emerge as a formidable entity in the realm of football.

    This transformation owes much to the inclusion of the legendary Portuguese football icon, Cristiano Ronaldo.

    His arrival has triggered an exponential surge in the league’s reputation, causing sceptics to reassess their initial doubts.

    The influence exerted by Ronaldo on the league, both prior to and after his entrance, is monumental.

    His mere presence has elevated what was once regarded as a modest league into one that now commands reverence even from the established powerhouses of European football.

    Ronaldo’s prophetic declaration that the Saudi League would ascend to join the ranks of the world’s top five leagues no longer appears implausible.

    Even those who previously dismissed this notion have been compelled to amend their viewpoints.

    Carlo Nohra, the chief of operations for the Saudi Pro League, recently illuminated the profound positive impact of Ronaldo’s participation.

    According to Nohra, the league’s revenue has surged by a staggering 650 percent since Ronaldo’s inclusion.

    Furthermore, the league’s broadcast coverage has expanded to encompass an impressive 140 countries, indicating a substantial global outreach.

    In December 2022, Ronaldo embarked on his own journey to Saudi Arabia by joining Al-Nassr, securing a staggering contract valued at 200 million Euros annually.

    This pivotal move triggered a chain reaction, prompting other prominent football figures, including Karim Benzema, Neymar, Mane, Mahres, Mendy, Kante, Ruben Neves, Firmino, Yassin Bono, and Azmeric Laporte, to also venture into the Saudi Pro League.

  • Senegalese defender, Abdou Diallo leaves PSG for Qatari team Al Arabi

    Senegalese defender, Abdou Diallo leaves PSG for Qatari team Al Arabi

    On Tuesday, Paris St-Germain’s Senegalese defender, Abdou Diallo (27), completed a move to Qatari team Al Arabi, according to an announcement by the Ligue 1 club.

    While the exact details of the agreement were not revealed, sources from French media indicated that Diallo has committed to a four-year contract with Al Arabi following the completion of a transfer worth 15 million euros.

    “I’ll always be a Parisian and grateful to have worn this shirt,” said the centre-back, who won two Ligue 1 titles, two French Cups, and a League Cup with the capital club.
    Diallo came through the youth ranks at AS Monaco and made his debut in 2014 before winning Ligue 1 in 2017.

    After participating in 75 matches across various competitions for PSG following his transfer from Borussia Dortmund in 2019, where he had previously spent a season with Bundesliga side Mainz 05, Abdou Diallo has now joined the Qatar Stars League with Al Arabi.

    The player, who was born in France, spent the previous season on loan at RB Leipzig, making 15 appearances and netting a goal. His contribution also played a role in RB Leipzig’s victory in the German Cup.

    Diallo, once the captain of France’s under-21 team, has earned 23 caps for Senegal. He played a pivotal role in Senegal’s triumph at the 2021 African Cup of Nations and was also part of the squad that competed in the previous year’s World Cup.

  • Video: Sadio Mane thriving on Saudi soil as he scores four minutes into Saudi Pro League debut for Al-Nassr

    Video: Sadio Mane thriving on Saudi soil as he scores four minutes into Saudi Pro League debut for Al-Nassr

    Sadio Mane had an exceptional beginning in the Saudi Pro League, scoring a goal just four minutes into the match against former Liverpool teammates Steven Gerrard and Jordan Henderson, who were playing for Liverpool legends.

    The goal showcased Mane’s trademark style, as he accelerated up the field, temporarily lost and then regained possession, and ultimately slotted home a close-range shot from a right-wing cross.

    This gave Al-Nassr a 1-0 advantage on the scoreboard.

    The match started positively for the former Liverpool player, but for two beloved figures of Anfield, manager Steven Gerrard and midfielder Jordan Henderson, who now represented Al-Ettifaq, it was a contrasting experience filled with disappointment.

    They could only watch in frustration as a familiar face put them at a deficit.

    At halftime, Al-Nassr, without Cristiano Ronaldo in their ranks, held a 1-0 lead.

  • Neymar headed for the Saudis as Al-Hilal strike €160m deal with PSG

    Neymar’s impending move to Saudi Arabia is nearing completion following Paris Saint-Germain’s agreement with Al-Hilal and the finalisation of personal terms.

    L’Equipe reports that PSG and the Saudi Pro League team have come to terms on Neymar’s transfer.

    The 31-year-old Brazilian has already committed to a two-year contract that will see him earn a total of €160 million (£138 million or $175 million).

    Neymar’s six-year tenure in Paris seems to be concluding quietly. His absence from play since March and his pursuit of reconstructive ankle ligament surgery highlight the injury challenges that have persisted since his record-breaking transfer from Barcelona in 2017.

    Despite netting 118 goals for PSG, Neymar’s relationship with the club’s fans has been turbulent in recent times.

    This tension reached a peak when the ultras staged a protest outside his residence earlier this year. This summer, both Neymar and Marco Verratti were advised to seek new clubs.

    Neymar will join a cadre of global superstars who have migrated to Saudi Arabia this season.

    At Al-Hilal, he will collaborate with the likes of Kalidou Koulibaly, Ruben Neves, and former Barcelona player Malcom.


    Neymar is on the verge of moving to Saudi Arabia after Paris Saint-Germain agreed a deal with Al-Hilal, with personal terms already settled.


    According to L’Equipe, PSG and the Saudi Pro League side have reached an agreement for the transfer of Neymar.

    The 31-year-old Brazilian has already agreed to a two-year-contract that will see him pocket €160 million (£138 million or $175 million) in total.


    Neymar’s six-year spell in the French capital looks to be ending with a whimper. He has been out of action since March, and has undergone reconstructive ankle ligament surgery in an attempt to solve the injury issues that have plagued him since his world-record move from Barcelona in 2017.


    Despite scoring 118 goals for PSG, Neymar has had an up-and-down relationship with the club’s fans in recent years, which came to a head when their ultras protested outside his home earlier this year. This summer, he was told, along with Marco Verratti, to find a new club.
    Neymar will join a host of global superstars who have flocked to Saudi Arabia this summer.

    At Al-Hilal, he’ll link up with Kalidou Koulibaly, Ruben Neves, and former Barcelona man Malcom.

  • PSG goes hard on Mbappe as he is told to be ready for the bench after snubbing Saudi, Premier League offers

    PSG goes hard on Mbappe as he is told to be ready for the bench after snubbing Saudi, Premier League offers


    Kylian Mbappe has     received a stern warning from Paris Saint-Germain that he will be excluded from any participation during the upcoming season if he opts to remain at Parc des Princes this summer.

    Currently, PSG and Mbappe are engaged in a contractual standoff, with the French star asserting that he would rather remain sidelined in Paris for an entire year than relocate to the Middle East this summer.

    Although the club reportedly received a substantial €300 million (£259 million or $332 million) bid for Mbappe last month, the situation remains unresolved.

    The French club appears resolute in its stance, as journalist Bruno Andrade revealed that PSG has communicated to Mbappe that he will not feature in the 2023–24 season if he decides to stay, having rejected overtures from Saudi Arabia and the Premier League.

    As Mbappe’s current contract is set to expire in June 2024, this represents PSG’s final opportunity to avoid a significant financial setback regarding the superstar.

    Under the leadership of newly appointed manager Luis Enrique, there seems to have been a notable impact during the early stages of his tenure.

    He has already informed players such as Neymar, Hugo Ekitike, Renato Sanches, Gini Wijnaldum, and Juan Bernat that they are free to depart during the summer transfer window without facing any inquiries.

    While the French champions are set to commence their Ligue 1 title defence against Lorient this weekend, uncertainty lingers regarding the composition of the playing squad for the upcoming season.

  • Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta, 39, joins UAE Pro League

    Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta, 39, joins UAE Pro League


    Andres Iniesta has     officially become a member of Emirates Club in the United Arab Emirates Pro League, signing a one-year contract.

    The esteemed 39-year-old figure from Spain and Barcelona arrived in Dubai on Monday in preparation for finalising his agreement.

    The experienced midfielder will retain the possibility of prolonging his tenure with the club until June 2025.

    Iniesta, who spent the past five seasons competing in Japan for Vissel Kobe, now joins the Emirates Club as a free agent.

    His primary motivation is to secure more opportunities on the field, especially after accumulating just 94 minutes of gameplay throughout his 18 appearances with Kobe during the previous season.


    “There was difficulty in not being picked to play after putting my heart into training,” Iniesta said last month after playing his last game for Vissel Kobe. “I’ve experienced a lot of things over these five years, which is a long time.”

    Iniesta scored the winning goal for Spain in the 2010 World Cup final.

    He was also a key part of Spain’s two European Championship wins, in 2008 and 2012.


    Iniesta began his career at Barcelona and won nine league titles and four Champions League among other trophies in his 16 seasons at the club.

  • Klopp condemns Saudi transfer window closing date as “pretty much the worst thing”

    Klopp condemns Saudi transfer window closing date as “pretty much the worst thing”

    Manager of Liverpool, Juergen Klopp has appealed to FIFA, the global soccer governing body, to investigate the situation where Saudi Arabia’s transfer window closes three weeks after Europe’s.

    He is concerned that major European leagues might suffer from losing players without the ability to replace them adequately.

    While the transfer window for the Premier League concludes on September 1, aligned with most of Europe’s top leagues, the Saudi Pro League permits clubs to make signings until September 20.

    Liverpool has already experienced the departure of three crucial players to Saudi clubs, including captain Jordan Henderson and midfielder Fabinho, along with striker Roberto Firmino, who left on a free transfer.

    “The influence of Saudi Arabia is massive at the moment,” Klopp told reporters on Tuesday, a day before their pre-season friendly against Bayern Munich in Singapore.

    “Pretty much the worst thing I think is that the transfer window in Saudi Arabia is open three weeks longer. If I am right, I heard something like that, then at least in Europe that’s not helpful.

    “UEFA (Europe’s soccer body) or FIFA must find solutions for that. But in the end, at this moment, I don’t know exactly what will happen. It’s already influential for us but we will have to learn to deal with it… Time will show.”

    Saudi Arabia have flexed their financial might by luring some of the best players from European clubs with lucrative contracts, including French Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema and his World Cup winning compatriot N’Golo Kante, Sadio Mane among others.

    The European exodus began last year when Al-Nassr completed the marquee signing of Cristiano Ronaldo soon after the World Cup in Qatar, making the Portugal forward the highest-paid athlete in the world.

  • ‘Oga go chop life for Saudi, take the money’ – Nigerians call Osimhen to go for Saudi’s €1m a week deal

    ‘Oga go chop life for Saudi, take the money’ – Nigerians call Osimhen to go for Saudi’s €1m a week deal

    Nigerians on various social media platforms are advising Victor Osimhen to seriously consider accepting the highly lucrative €1 million-per-week deal from Saudi Arabian team Al Hilal.

    The consensus among many is that this offer has the potential to be a life-changing opportunity, and thus, Osimhen should take inspiration from his fellow Super Eagles teammate, Odion Ighalo, who previously made a similar move to Hilal.

    If the Nigerian striker agrees to join the Saudi Pro League side, he could potentially earn a staggering €52 million annually.

    According to Sky Sports, Hilal has also put forward a substantial €140 million as a transfer fee to Napoli.

    However, reports from Italian outlet Il Mattino suggest that both Osimhen and Napoli have rejected the offer on the table.

    It’s worth noting that the Italian club, Napoli, who are open to cashing in on Osimhen, are reportedly holding out for a fee of €150 million.

    Al Hilal’s pursuit of Osimhen comes after their unsuccessful attempt to secure the services of Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappe.

    Checkout some reactions below

    He should take it. Poverty is not an option.

    — Thεό Abu (@TheoAbuAgada) July 31, 2023
    He should take it he should not try to chase glory of winning European trophies that is for European players…take the money, be rich forever simple

    — ANATHii (@Nathi_manando) July 31, 2023
    Almost 1b naira every week, grab it victor grab it ????

    — Nwadike Ifeanyi (@ifeanyi_nwadike) July 31, 2023
    — Slimfit (@iSlimfit) July 31, 2023
    Me:When VICTOR OSIMHEN signs the deal to Move to Saudi Arabia to earn €1m a Week. pic.twitter.com/nEP0Q1lSj5

    — ➰FRANKPRENUER➰ (@Thefranknation) July 31, 2023
    Abég…how old is Oshimen now.
    You know African retired early
    Oga go chop life for Arab.. just carry me along I no mind

    — Adekunle suraj (@suraj_adekunl) July 31, 2023
    life is very short take your chances and enjoy it while you can,48m / season is better than winning italian league 3 times in a raw

    — ⓓⓞⓝ ⓜⓞ7ⓐⓜⓜⓐⓓ⏱ (@DONMO7AMMAD) July 31, 2023
    In as much as I love to see Osinmeh dominate European football the more, I will be selfish to say he should turn down an offer that will pay him Billions of Naira a month!

    He should follow the money for now… that’s what’s good for him.

    — Femi Oguntayo ???? (@FemiOguntayo2) July 31, 2023
    He’s better off playing in Europe

    — Rahamon Kabiawu (@Kabiawu_) July 31, 2023
    Stay in Europe and do what? No be the same football? The trophies won’t matter as an African when you retire

    — Jeff ???? (@so_katman) July 31, 2023
    That man should be in Saudi already    . As Africans we need to get that money invested at home .

    — The Over taker???? (@kiizarogic) August 1, 2023
    He should stay money is not everything ????????????????

    — Abdul Rahman Medal Abubakar (@MedalRaman) July 31, 2023
    U ended up saying let’s be realistic. To be realistic means to go to saudi

    — loshanti (@loshantii) July 31, 2023
    1m a week?
    Osimhen please go ????

    — ???????????????????????? (@keyzeeto_) July 31, 2023

  • Sadio Mane just a medical away from joining Al-Nassr

    Sadio Mane just a medical away from joining Al-Nassr

    Sadio Mane is on the verge of joining Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr and teaming up with Cristiano Ronaldo, pending a medical examination.

    Bayern Munich has reportedly accepted a verbal proposal for the Senegalese forward, who faced challenges adapting to the Bundesliga after his move from Liverpool last summer.

    Al Nassr has been engaged in intense negotiations with Bayern Munich for Mane’s transfer and made a £32 million offer for the talented winger.

    The Saudi Pro League club is confident that they can finalize the deal before the end of the week.


    According to The Sun, Mane’s agent is already negotiating personal terms with Al Nassr as the 31-year-old forward is expected to become the latest big name to move from Europe to Saudi Arabia.


    Mane is set to become Al Nassr’s fourth major signing this summer after completing deals for Marcelo Brozovic, Reuben Neves and Seko Fofana by the Saudi club.

    Mane’s Bayern performance not satisfactory
    Meanwhile, Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer has described Sadio Mane’s time at the German club as ‘not satisfactory’ as the Senegalese forward looks set to leave for Al Nassr, ESPN reports.

    The former Liverpool forward scored 12 goals in 38 appearances for Bayern, but only one of those goals came after a leg injury in November that kept him out of the World Cup.

    Mane has two years left on his contract with Bayern, but after a disappointing and injury-hit first season with the Bundesliga champions, both parties have decided to part ways after just one season.

    Sadio Mane snaps at reporter
    Earlier, Sports Brief reported Sadio Mane’s immediate future at Bayern Munich remains unsettled after the forward suffered a reported fallout with the German club hierarchy.


    However, Mane appeared to have noticed the amount of backlash he has received from the media and he wasted little time showing how displeased he was with them.

    In a video posted on Twitter by Maximilian Koch, an Abendzeitung reporter, the player was seen posing for a photo with a fan when a journalist approached.

  • City confirms winger, Riyad Mahrez exit to Saudi side, Al-Ahli

    City confirms winger, Riyad Mahrez exit to Saudi side, Al-Ahli

    Manchester City has officially announced that Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez has completed a £30 million transfer to Al-Ahli, a club in the Saudi Pro League.

    The 32-year-old has signed a contract until 2027 with his new team and is reportedly set to earn an impressive £750,000 per week.

    After joining Manchester City in 2018 from Leicester City for a fee of £60 million, Mahrez experienced remarkable success during his time at the Etihad Stadium.

    He played a key role in the team’s achievements, contributing to four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three Carabao Cups, and the coveted Champions League trophy.

    Mahrez’s departure from Manchester City marks the end of an era for the talented winger, who has now embarked on a new chapter of his career in Saudi Arabia.

    He was given permission to miss City’s pre-season trip to Japan and South Korea to finalize the move to Al-Ahli.

  • List of confirmed Saudi transfer deals so far

    List of confirmed Saudi transfer deals so far


    The emergence of the Saudi Pro League has become a significant topic of discussion in this summer’s transfer window.

    With the Public Investment Fund (PIF) now holding a 75% ownership stake in four of the nation’s prominent clubs, namely Al-Ittihad, Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli, their financial capabilities have seen a remarkable surge.

    Consequently, several prominent European football stars are opting to follow in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo and join the Saudi Arabian league.

    Here, we provide an overview of all the significant completed transfers in this regard.

    Karim Benzema (Al-Ittihad)

    Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema, 35, got Saudi’s summer business under way by joining champions Al-Ittihad on a free transfer.

    The Real Madrid icon signed a two-year contract with an option for a further year, which is reportedly worth around £100million per season.

    N’Golo Kante (Al-Ittihad)

    N’Golo Kante, 32, chose to walk the same path as his compatriot Benzema by moving to the Jeddah-based outfit on a free transfer.

    The all-action midfielder left Chelsea after seven years of quality service, putting pen to paper on a four-year deal worth a reported £86m per season.

    Ruben Neves (Al-Hilal)

    Wolves received a club record fee of £47m from Al-Hilal for their former captain Ruben Neves, who had just one year remaining on his deal at Molineux.

    The Portuguese midfielder — still only 26 — signed a three-year contract with the 18-time Saudi Pro League champions.

    Ruben Neves (Al-Hilal)

    Wolves received a club record fee of £47m from Al-Hilal for their former captain Ruben Neves, who had just one year remaining on his deal at Molineux.

    The Portuguese midfielder — still only 26 — signed a three-year contract with the 18-time Saudi Pro League champions.

    Kalidou Koulibaly (Al-Hilal)

    Neves will play alongside Kalidou Koulibaly in Riyadh next season following the centre-back’s departure from Chelsea just a year after signing from Napoli. 

    The deal for the 32-year-old defender cost Al-Hilal a reported £20m in transfer fees, with his contract running until 2026.

    Edouard Mendy (Al-Ahli)

    Edouard Mendy became the third Chelsea star to seal a Middle East move when joining Al-Ahli for an undisclosed fee.

    Having played a key role in the Blues’ 2021 Champions League triumph, the Senegal stopper lost his starting spot at Stamford Bridge last term and has now headed for pastures new.

    Marcelo Brozovic (Al-Nassr)

    Marcelo Brozovic, 30, decided to join Ronaldo at Al-Nassr for a reported fee of £15m, the Croatian midfielder signing a three-year contract with the nine-time Saudi Pro League winners.

    The 87-cap international was a key figure at Inter Milan for many years and started in the Nerazzurri’s recent Champions League final defeat to Manchester City.

  • Gerrard chase the notes as he takes on head coach role at Saudi’s Al-Ettifaq

    Gerrard chase the notes as he takes on head coach role at Saudi’s Al-Ettifaq

    Former captain of Liverpool, Steven Gerrard, has joined the ranks of star players making a move to Saudi Arabia.

    He recently signed a contract to become the head coach of Al-Ettifaq.

    At the age of 43, Gerrard has been out of the game since his dismissal from Aston Villa in October.

    Initially, he had declined an offer to move to the Gulf state, but he has now been enticed by the lucrative opportunities available.

    “Where legends are found. We’re thrilled to announce Steven Gerrard is our new head coach,” the club said in a post on Twitter.

    Al-Ettifaq finished seventh out of 16 clubs in the Saudi Pro League last season.

    Backed by the nation’s sovereign wealth fund, the Saudi Pro League is luring big names from the major European leagues with the promise of huge salaries.

    Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr in January started the trend.

    His former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema and French World Cup winner N’Golo Kante of Chelsea have recently joined Al-Ittihad.

    Former Tottenham manager Nuno Espirito Santo and ex-Benfica Jorge Jesus are among the coaches to head to Saudi.

    Since retiring from a glittering playing career, Gerrard did have success during his spell in charge of Scottish giants Rangers, where he won the club’s only league title in the past 12 years in 2020/21.

  • “May God protect me!” Al-Hilal star fears dismal over possible Messi presence at club

    “May God protect me!” Al-Hilal star fears dismal over possible Messi presence at club

    The potential arrival of Lionel Messi at Al-Hilal, a team in the Saudi Pro League, has created apprehension among some of the current players, who are concerned about losing their positions in the team.

    The widely acclaimed seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has been strongly linked with a move to Saudi Arabia after declining an opportunity to extend his contract with Paris Saint-Germain.

    As per Sportskeeda, Ali Al-Bulayhi, a prominent player at Al-Hilal who had a previous altercation with Messi during the World Cup, is worried that Messi might include him among the players he prefers not to work with, should Messi join the club.

    “I do not know what will happen, and I am afraid that he says, ‘I do not want number five.’ I do not know if Messi will come or not, but if he comes, may God protect me! If he comes, God willing, I will not attend the first two days until I monitor the situation from afar so that he may forget me.”

    Messi has been offered a whopping €500 million annual deal to join this summer, although Barcelona are also bidding to convince the Argentine to return to Camp Nou.

    Xavi unsure of Messi’s return

    Meanwhile, Xavi is unsure whether Lionel Messi will return to Barcelona this summer but has admitted the decision lies firmly with the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, 90MIN reports.

    The newly crowned La Liga champions are hugely confident of returning the World Cup winner to Camp Nou, even in the face of interest from Al Hilal, who offered Messi a whopping €500 million annual deal.

    arcelona recently had their viability plan to sign Messi this summer approved by La Liga as the Catalan club intends to proceed with its quest to bring Messi back to the club.

    Lewandowski makes strong Messi confession

    Earlier, Sports Brief reported Robert Lewandowski has recently made a resounding statement expressing his fervent wish for Lionel Messi to make a fairytale return to Barcelona.

    Messi departed Barca in 2021 due to the club’s ailing financial situation, joining Paris Saint-Germain on a two-year contract in the process.

    But with his current PSG deal expiring in the summer, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has been urged to make a return to his ‘spiritual home.’

  • How Cristiano Ronaldo talks to his late father and son inside a small chapel

    How Cristiano Ronaldo talks to his late father and son inside a small chapel

    Cristiano Ronaldo has talked openly about how his ritual of talking to his late father and son motivates him to improve himself as a person. Due to his outstanding accomplishments, the Al-Nassr captain is regarded as one of the greatest footballers to ever play the game.

    Despite being on the wrong side of 40, the 38-year-old has not lost his enthusiasm for his work and still strives for greatness in the latter stages of his professional life. After scoring eight goals in four games during the reviewed month, he was recently named the Saudi Pro League’s Player of the Month for February.

    Aside from his prowess on the field, Ronaldo is also admired for his humanitarian works, which was evidenced as he sent relief items to victims of the Turkey and Syria earthquake. Ronaldo takes inspiration from dad and son Throwing light on where he derives his passion for striving to be the best version of himself, Ronaldo said, as quoted by Frank Khalid.

    Ronaldo and his late dad

    Although Ronaldo admits he never really shared a father-son moment with his late dad Jose Dinis Aveiro, the former Manchester United ace holds him in high esteem.

    As a result of his father’s struggles with alcohol, the five-time Ballon d’Or completely abstains from alcohol. Ronaldo was just 20 when his father died in 2005, per the Sun. Cristiano loses baby son Ronaldo and his partner Georgina Rodriguez were expecting twins in April last year; however, one of the twins, his son, died during childbirth. He admitted the death of his son was the worst moment of his life.

    “[It was] probably the worst moment that I passed through in my life since my father died,” the ex-Real Madrid forward said, as quoted by Eurosport. “When you have a kid, you expect that everything will be normal, and you have that problem, it’s hard…we had quite difficult moments because we don’t understand why it happened to us.

    Kaka picks Ronaldo as GOAT Sports Brief previously reported that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been compared as the greatest players in football history throughout their careers – but which one is the true GOAT?

    Ronaldo and Messi have broken, rewritten, and set enough records to practically last a lifetime in their illustrious careers, some of which may never be matched. Kaka, who won the 2007 Ballon d’Or prize ahead of the GOAT duo, once described Messi as a genius while commending Ronaldo for his mentality.