Unfazed by Saudi Arabia’s Impact on Transfer Market, Manchester United Boss Erik ten Hag Claims Premier League Is ‘Where the Big Players Want to Play’

Saudi Arabia’s deep pockets have caused a stir in the transfer market. There’s fear among European clubs. An influx of cash from the Gulf nation might disrupt the dynamics of transfer and wages. Meanwhile, the Manchester United boss is unfazed by Saudi clubs going berserk.

The salaries offered by the Roshn Saudi League clubs are attracting European players. Many stars from the European top five leagues have taken the Saudi route. However, the majority of them are in their 30s. But a few transfers like Ruben Neves and Jota have raised some concerns. Amid this, Erik Ten Hag feels Premier League’s unrivaled status and enduring appeal still keep it at the pinnacle.

Manchester United boss makes a massive Premier League claim

Premier League is arguably the best and most competitive soccer league in the world. The majority of players dream of playing in the English top division. Apart from competitiveness, it also provides great avenues for the players to progress financially compared to other European leagues. But now, Roshn Saudi League is providing tough competition to the Premier League, not sporting-wise but financially. 

However, this influx of cash has Erik Ten Hag unmoved. The United boss feels Premier League is still the destination for the superstars. He said, “There is money there [in Saudi Arabia], and it attracts players. It has an impact in Europe, but I don’t see it as a problem for the Premier League, because it’s where the big players want to play. And that doesn’t put them in competition with the USA or Saudi Arabia.”

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The take of Ten Hag, to some extent, has traction. Premier League clubs are doing significant business compared to other leagues. They outplayed other leagues, like in the January transfer window, and are truly seeming like the Super League. Meanwhile, Ten Hag’s claims come after his rival, Pep Guardiola, raised concerns over Saudi clubs making strides. 

Pep Guardiola concerned with Saudi Arabian dominance in the transfer window

Guardiola recently sent a warning to the European clubs, with many stars preferring the Roshn Saudi League. His comments came after Manchester City superstar Riyad Mahrez moved to Al Ahli in a $39 million transfer deal. The former FC Barcelona manager confessed that Mahrez received a mouth-watering offer, and the club didn’t stand in his way.

While sending a warning to the clubs, Guardiola said, “Saudi Arabia has changed the market. A few months ago, when Cristiano [Ronaldo] was the only one to go, no one thought this many top players would play there. In the future, there will be more, and that’s why clubs need to be aware.” 

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Is the Premier League still the dream of soccer stars? Share your thoughts in the comments.