Today's update from the Saudi League: Renewed pursuit of Mohamed Salah and Al-Ittihad's uncertainty surrounding Nuno Santo's future.
The 2023 summer transfer window in the Saudi Roshan League has witnessed a remarkable influx of stars joining the league, hinting at a potential rise for the league within the Arab region. Major international signings have been made by various clubs: Al-Ittihad acquired the services of Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kante, Al-Hilal signed Ruben Neves and Kalidou Koulibaly, and Al-Ahly, back in the Roshan League, secured Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, while Al-Nasr added Croatian Marcelo Brozovic. These signings complemented the earlier acquisition of Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo by Al-Nasr, marking the start of the league's transfer revolution.
The Saudi League anticipates further significant deals following the intense summer transfers. Notably, Al-Ittihad's coach Nuno Santo faces public scrutiny for the team's declining performance in the current season, despite last season's success in the Saudi Roshan League and the local Super Cup. However, reports indicate a lack of consensus within the club's administration regarding Nuno Santo's dismissal.
Criticism towards Algerian Riyad Mahrez's performance at Al-Ahly has surfaced, with some Saudi stars expressing dissatisfaction with his contributions. Commentators noted concerns about Mahrez's seemingly minimal effort and selective movements during matches.
Former Al-Ittihad and Saudi national team star Muhammad Nour criticized Mahrez's approach, emphasizing his perception of minimal effort and strategic limitations in his gameplay.
Additionally, discussions emerged regarding Brazilian Firmino's performance at Al-Ahly, with Hussein Abdel-Ghani stating that Firmino hasn't significantly impacted the team's performance in the 2023-2024 Roshan League matches since the first round.
Injury concerns have arisen for Al-Nasr's defender Aymeric Laporte ahead of their match against Al-Wahda in the Saudi Roshan League, with the team's medical staff yet to make a decision regarding his participation.
Looking ahead, there are reports of Saudi clubs targeting four players from the English Premier League during the upcoming winter transfer market in January 2024, with Mohamed Salah being a key target, despite earlier negotiations being reported as inconclusive due to his club's reluctance to let him depart.