A time announced in the sights of Paris Saint-Germain to take over from Christophe Galtier, José Mourinho could become the first great European coach to join the Saudi Arabian championship.
Non-existent on the world football scene a few months ago, until the striking success of its selection against Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, Saudi Arabia is now setting the transfer market on fire. After bringing Cristiano Ronaldo to Al-Nassr earlier this year, the Gulf country managed to lure Karim Benzema, the last Ballon d’Or, into its nets. Recruited by Al-Ittihad a few days ago, the French striker could also meet a well-known coach again next season. Since according to information from Foot Mercato, the Al-Hilal club dreams of having José Mourinho on his sidelines.
A “massive annual salary” for Mourinho
Excluded FM: Al-Hilal wants José Mourinho on his bench! 🇮🇹
° Main favorite for the Saudi leadership
° Meeting planned in London
° First offer ready to be proposed
° Mourinho not interested so far –– @footmercato https://t.co/jkdNeD7B1O
— Valentin Feuillette (@VFeuillette75) June 11, 2023
Eager to strike a blow on the transfer window to shade its competitors, the most successful formation in the country had tried to offer a gigantic contract to Lionel Messi, but the former star of Barça or PSG finally decided to continue his career at Inter Miami in MLS. To wash away this small affront, Al-Hilal therefore wants José Mourinho. To convince the Special One, “Saudi leaders are even ready to offer him to draw up a list of players he would like to attract to Riyadh”. A meeting is even scheduled in London next week between the Portuguese coach and Fahad bin Nafel, the owner of the Saudi club. Following this interview, Mourinho could receive a long-term contract with a “massive annual salary”.
End of the PSG rumor for Mourinho
But not sure that the millions of euros from Saudi Arabia make the former Real Madrid coach falter. Quite simply because the 60-year-old manager wants to continue his adventure at AS Roma, where he is under contract until 2024. Anyway, and despite certain rumours, Mourinho will not be the successor of Christophe Galtier at PSG, since the Qatari management has not discussed with the Portuguese at the end of the season.
