Saudi Arabia has struck the spirits by bringing Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the greatest players in the history of football, in its championship. And she does not intend to stop there.
Did Cristiano Ronaldo open Pandora’s box by signing for Al-Nassr? The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has become the first truly resounding name to join Saudi Arabia, which is keen to become a key player in world football. As part of the Saudi Kingdom’s “Project 2030”, led by Prince Mohamed Bin Salman, who notably dreams of hosting the World Cup in association with Egypt and Greece (!), other stars could be offered huge sums to sign in the Saudi Pro League.
Thereby, Sky Sports reports that Saudi Arabia haven’t given up on the idea of bringing in…Lionel Messi in the near future, possibly as early as next summer, despite ongoing talks between the Argentine and PSG over a extension. A symbolic standoff also between Qatar and its big neighbor. It was the Al Hilal club, which saw CR7 sign with rival Al-Nassr, which would then welcome Lionel Messi, making him the highest paid player in the world. Not insignificantly, Messi recently became Saudi Arabia’s tourist ambassador.
If the Messi file is very complicated but a priority, Saudi Arabia will turn to other names in the future. And among them announce Sky SportsMohamed Salah et al Kevin De Bruyne were pointed out as targets. Garry Cook, former Manchester City manager, has been appointed CEO of the Saudi Pro League; he was behind many high profile transfers at the time, at the start of the Emirati era of Citizens. It was Cook who brought Yaya Toure, David Silva, Sergio Aguero and Carlos Tevez to Manchester City.
In short: Saudi Arabia will make offers in the future to several major football players in order to solidify its place on the world stage. And unlike Cristiano Ronaldo, who arrived at almost 38 years old, they will not all have passed their peak of form. Will Kevin De Bruyne be seduced? On a purely sporting level, we can only hope for a negative response…
