The European soccer scenario has completely changed with the arrival of the Saudi Pro League. Since Cristiano Ronaldo moved to the Middle East, various players have followed the bandwagon in earning sensational contracts. And now, add Neymar to the long list of soccer players who have shifted their ambitions to Saudi Arabia. Gone are those days when European soccer ruled the sport. Now, with Saudi Arabia in the market, the entire landscape of the game changes every day. But a famous Brazilian journalist thinks otherwise.
In a rather interesting take, Walter Casagrande Jr. voiced his opinions on Neymar’s $218 million move to Al Hilal. In doing so, he brought attention to some obvious aspects and, similar to everyone else, had thoughts on the surprising transfer.
Famous journalist explains Al Hilal’s surprising transfer of Neymar
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According to UOL, the prominent journalist stated, “In any case, his situation was resolved by going to Arab football, as many important players in today’s football are choosing. Or rather, they are choosing the amount of money that the Arabs are offering and paying to give a boost to a championship that, in reality, never had weight on the world stage.” It is not the first significant transfer in the upcoming campaign. Al Hilal earlier signed Kalidou Koulibaly, Ruben Neves, and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, moving to the club this summer.
Walter continued, “Financially, it was sensational for Neymar, but professionally, it was a huge downfall, not least because nobody was really interested in him.” Now 31, Neymar is entering the twilight years of his career. He won several trophies with Barcelona and formed a spectacular trio with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. Yet, the sensational Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappe combo failed to work out at PSG. They were unsuccessful in obtaining a Champions League trophy as the French club relentlessly looks to win it for the first time.
But moving to Saudi Arabia is not a downgrade. To say the league is still under the shadows of other top tournaments in the world is an understatement. The Saudi Pro League looks to be the primary destination for players to sign contracts. Not only do they offer monstrous contracts, but their fans are passionate. They consistently filled the stadiums and craved world-class talent to grace the league.
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The big trio leaves Europe!
Like Ronaldo and Neymar, Messi left for the MLS. Nonetheless, it will be the first time in many years, these three superstars won’t play in Europe. They have captured the hearts and minds of the soccer fraternity for years with their stunning performances. These three are equally responsible for the viewership of the top leagues in the world.
In their 30s now, the players look to enjoy the last part of their careers. They seem to want to squeeze their last ounce of energy and entertain the crowd with their skills. Will you miss these players when they retire?
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