The case of Steven Gerrard illustrates the new trend of this transfer window, marked by a massive exodus of football stars to Saudi Arabia.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté… The big names in the world of football are rushing to the Asian continent to join the Saudi championship. In order to assert its power before the 2030 World Cup, Saudi Arabia has established an ambitious policy to attract stars. And this strategy is not limited to players. Now a coach, former Liverpool legend Steve Gerrard has also opted for the Saudi challenge.
While he was free since his dismissal from Aston Villa last fall, the ex-English international signed up for Al-Ettifaq, a team which finished in 7th place in the championship last season. Gerrard did not hide the financial attraction of this championship, but the Briton also explained that this aspect was not the only parameter that weighed in the balance.
Saudi Arabia: the 3 determining criteria
” There are three things I always consider, in this order: it has to be good for my family, first of all, explained Steven Gerrard in remarks transcribed on the official website of his new club. We need to be excited and motivated by the challenge. Secondly, I think the football project has to be ambitious, with the right goals and of course you have to feel secure with the contract, but that comes at the end.“, concluded the English technician.
