Saudi Pro League Attracts Players After Opening Match Featuring Firmino and Mahrez
The Saudi Pro League has garnered significant attention and interest from players around the world following its revamped project. Michael Emenalo, the director of football for the league, revealed that he received calls from players expressing their desire to join after witnessing the season’s opening match, which featured Roberto Firmino and Riyad Mahrez.
Emenalo, formerly the technical director at Chelsea, was present in Jeddah to witness the opening match between Al Ahli and Al Hazm. Al Ahli is one of Saudi Arabia’s four clubs majority-owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), while Al Hazm is not part of the chosen four.
The league’s recruitment efforts have been the talk of the summer, with high-profile signings such as Karim Benzema (Al Ittihad), Ruben Neves (Al Hilal), and Jordan Henderson (Al Ettifaq). Henderson, who will play against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr on Monday night, faced criticism for his move due to concerns about LGBTQI+ and women’s rights in Saudi Arabia.
Despite these concerns, Emenalo emphasized the league’s commitment to addressing players’ apprehensions and changing the narrative surrounding the Saudi league. He received numerous calls and messages from players who stayed up to watch the opening match and expressed their interest in being part of the league after witnessing its quality.
To further enhance the league’s appeal, Emenalo acknowledged the desire to attract stars like Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane. However, he also acknowledged that European leagues, particularly the Premier League, are strong and entrenched, and do not necessarily fear competition from the Saudi Pro League. Instead, they may view its presence as disruptive.
The opening match showcased some of the recent investments made by Saudi clubs, with players like Roger Ibanez, Riyad Mahrez, Allan Saint-Maximin, and Edouard Mendy making their debuts. However, it was Firmino who stole the show by scoring a hat-trick in the scorching heat of over 30°C (86°F).
The league aims to put on a captivating spectacle for fans, with pyrotechnics and a passionate crowd of 24,006 supporters. The match’s success was crucial in proving that the Saudi Pro League has the potential to become one of the world’s top leagues.
Looking ahead, attention now turns to further recruitment as the Saudi transfer deadline is not until September 20. Emenalo revealed that clubs are working tirelessly to improve their squads and attract more stars. He understands that players may have concerns about various factors, including the weather, national team implications, and fear of criticism. It is his responsibility to address these concerns and ensure that players feel comfortable and excited about joining the league.
Emenalo also emphasized the need to challenge the negative narratives surrounding the Saudi league and the Kingdom itself. He believes that demolishing these outrageous narratives is crucial to attracting top talent and showcasing the league’s true potential.
The Saudi Pro League’s ambition to disrupt global football is evident in its pursuit of high-profile players. While the Premier League and other European leagues may not be scared, they do consider the league’s presence to be disruptive. This perception highlights the growing influence and competitiveness of the Saudi Pro League.
In conclusion, the Saudi Pro League has made a significant impact with its revamped project and high-profile signings. The opening match featuring Firmino and Mahrez has attracted interest from players worldwide, with many expressing their desire to join the league. The league’s director of football, Michael Emenalo, is committed to addressing players’ concerns and changing negative narratives surrounding the Saudi league. With further recruitment efforts underway, the Saudi Pro League aims to become one of the world’s top leagues and disrupt global football.