Jesse Lingard, the former Manchester United player, is currently facing the possibility of another two months of unemployment before finding a new club. Lingard, who is 30 years old, has been a free agent since being released by Nottingham Forest in the summer.
Lingard had been training with his old club West Ham, but he recently decided to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, who are managed by Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard. However, Lingard has not yet signed a contract with Al-Ettifaq due to the team’s limit on foreign players in the Saudi League.
According to the rules, clubs are only allowed a maximum of eight foreign players in a match-day squad, and Al-Ettifaq currently has 10 on their books. Some of these foreign stars include Jordan Henderson, Georginio Wijnaldum, Demarai Gray, and Moussa Dembele.
In order to make room for Lingard, Gerrard is attempting to move some of these foreign players out of the squad. However, he will not be able to do so until the transfer window re-opens in January. Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on the situation, stating that Al-Ettifaq is set to offer Lingard a pre-contract for 2024 as their squad is full until January. Gerrard is keen to sign Lingard, and both Henderson and Wijnaldum are pushing for him to join.
The final decision regarding whether Lingard wants to wait for Al-Ettifaq’s offer or explore other options will be up to him. Lingard has trained at a top level in Saudi Arabia and has attracted interest from other clubs as well. One possible destination for Lingard could be Osasuna in Spain.
It is clear that Lingard has options available to him, but he must carefully consider his next move. Lingard’s decision will not only impact his immediate future but also his long-term career prospects. It is crucial for him to choose a club where he can continue to develop and showcase his skills.
While Lingard awaits his next move, he should use this time to stay fit and focused. Maintaining a high level of fitness will ensure that he is ready to make an immediate impact when he does sign with a new club. Lingard should also take this opportunity to work on any areas of his game that may need improvement. By constantly striving to better himself, Lingard can increase his value as a player and attract more interest from potential suitors.
In conclusion, Jesse Lingard is currently facing a period of unemployment as he searches for a new club. He has attracted interest from Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, but the team’s limit on foreign players has delayed his signing. Lingard has other options available to him, including a possible move to Osasuna in Spain. It is crucial for Lingard to carefully consider his next move and choose a club where he can continue to develop and showcase his skills. By staying fit and focused during this period, Lingard can ensure that he is ready to make an immediate impact when he does find a new club.