The summer transfer window is marked by the massive exodus of big names to Saudi Arabia.
What looked like just one trend among many will perhaps be a turning point in the history of football. Like the United States, China or its neighbor Qatar before, Saudi Arabia has established itself as a privileged destination for footballers. But unlike these other so-called “exotic” championships, the Gulf country now manages to attract players in the prime of life.
The French touch of Al-Ittihad with Benzema-Kante
This was not the case for Cristiano Ronaldo, landed last winter at 37 years old. But the Portuguese striker’s status as a global superstar and five-time Ballon d’Or winner has cleared the way to attract other big names. The Al-Ittihad club will be led by his former Real Madrid attacking buddy, Karim Benzema, another foil Ballon d’Or for the country’s showcase. The Nueve will be supported by French world champion N’Golo Kanté (32) and Portuguese striker Jota (24).
Ronaldo well surrounded at Al-Nassr
In his stable of Al-Nassr, CR7 will also have beautiful people by his side. The excellent Croatian midfielder Marcelo Brozevic (30) left Inter to respond favorably to the Saudi offer, to everyone’s surprise. Former Nice goalkeeper David Ospina (34) and Brazilian attacking midfielder Talisca (29) will also represent Al-Nassr.
Al-Hilal’s high-end midfielder
Another well-off formation: Al-Hilal. With striker Moussa Marega (32), but also and above all an exceptional Sergej Milinković-Savić – Ruben Neves pair in the middle, this team could have great ambitions compared to its competitors. The Serbian and the Portuguese are 28 and 26 years old respectively. Not to mention the X factor in defense: a certain Kalidou Koulibaly, only 32 years old, and still considered one of the best central defenders on the planet.
C1 and PL experience in Al-Ahli
Finally, Al-Ahli will also have good arguments to put forward with the presence in its ranks of players of the caliber of Roberto Firmino (31 years old), Edouard Mendy (31 years old), Ryad Boudebouz (33 years old) and Ezgjan Alioski (31 years old). ).
Saudi Arabia is thus building an exceptional table to reinforce the appeal of its competition, with stars dispatched to the four corners of the country. A puzzle that is certainly not finished. Among the pieces still popular include Riyad Mahrez or Sadio Mané…
