Mainz boss Bo Svensson reveals the surprising catalyst for the influx of stars into Saudi Arabia is not Cristiano Ronaldo but Karim Benzema.
Mainz coach Bo Svensson believes it was Karim Benzema’s move to Al-Ittihad, not Cristiano Ronaldo’s to Al-Nassr, that triggered the influx of international stars to the Saudi Pro League.
He also acknowledged that the trend of big stars joining the Saudi Pro League is a threat to football in Germany and Europe in general.
Svensson told BILD : “I take this very seriously. It’s different from what was happening at the time with China. Only three foreigners were allowed to play per club, and the big names weren’t going to China either.
“For me, the decisive transfer to Saudi Arabia was not Ronaldo at 38, but Benzema, who has just played in the semi-finals of the Champions League. It could be an open door for others. When you see the names, the number of players going there and the money available, even the Premier League can’t keep up. I can’t wait to see how it goes.”
Benzema’s departure from Real Madrid, after 14 years of loyal service, and his subsequent signing with Al-Ittihad played a vital role in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to lure ten top players to their domestic league . This move is part of a broader offensive to improve the quality of the Saudi league, with a view to hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2030.
