It has been a restless time for some European experts and players about the current scenario in soccer. The mass shift from their top leagues to Saudi Arabia is not just about money but is now a matter of pride and prestige. Players had different reasons to move, such as money or a new challenge. However, one retired World Cup winner thinks it’s not a good idea. Cristiano Ronaldo has shown the path to Asia by joining Al Nassr FC for $500 million, causing a major hiccup for European leagues.
Saudi soccer clubs, with the backing of its government, have gone belligerent. They have put massive effort into pushing to buy the best players without hesitation. Players like Kylian Mbappe or Lionel Messi may not have shown interest, but the temptation is too much for many other players.
Former French player finds certain soccer stars going to Saudi annoying
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It is looking like the treasures of the world’s most popular sport have opened up for Saudi Arabia and the USA. As the Middle East is ready to pull top players, former France and Chelsea player Frank Leboeuf is bothered about a few talented young players opting to go to Saudi Arabia instead of staying in Europe.
In a recent interview, LeBoeuf said, “I have no problem with 30+ players who’ve already won everything going to Saudi, but I was annoyed at Neves for going. I’m fine with Kante, Firmino, and even Mitrovic going as they’ll want to provide for their families.”
Kylian Mbappe had already rejected an offer of almost $1 billion, but Ruben Neves moved to Al Hilal from the English Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers a few months ago for a fee of $60m. The French star was worried about players like Neves, who is well below 30. leaving for Saudi Arabia.
This move from Neves did not impress LeBoeuf because he thought Europe was the best place to be during a footballer’s prime years.
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Players above 30 years, who moved to Saudi did not offend the former Chelsea defender. He also claimed that going to Saudi in the later stages of one’s soccer player’s career was understandable, as he also went to Qatar to wrap up the final few years of his career.
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The restlessness of the European soccer community is pretty clear, with many pundits and players criticizing the Saudi move. With so many good players moving to the Middle East, Europe is slowly expected to share the soccer limelight with other regions.