A number of personalities relocated to Saudi Arabia during the summer, but a number of them are already confronted with an uncertain future in their new environment.
Numerous European superstars were enticed to join the Saudi Pro League through extremely lucrative contracts; however, a subset of them are already contemplating their next destination.
Seven stars in the Saudi Pro League have been designated as having an uncertain future after a closer examination.
Jordan Henderson
Henderson and his family, according to reports, have encountered challenges adjusting to life in Saudi Arabia. The former Liverpool captain has attracted the interest of Ajax and Juventus, but Al-Ettifaq are unwilling to allow him to depart at this time.
Capology estimates that Henderson, who signed a three-year contract with the Saudi club in the summer, earns £660,000 per week.
Al-Ettifaq have experienced a difficult stretch of play as they have secured a single victory in their last twelve matches. Given that declining attendance is a major topic of conversation, Henderson’s consideration of his options is unsurprising.
Karim Benzema
In an attempt to entice Benzema to Saudi Arabia, Al-Ittihad launched a campaign, but the Frenchman has had a rocky start in his new environment.
Despite scoring nine goals in the league thus far, Al-Ittihad are presently seventh, which is far below their initial expectations.
Due to their problematic performance, Benzema’s future is currently uncertain. Marca claims that Benzema will not participate in their forthcoming training camp in Dubai, which has only added fuel to the fire.
The 36-year-old former Real Madrid forward is reportedly eager to return to Europe, and Manchester United has already expressed interest in signing him.
Roberto Firmino
Following his hat-trick in his debut with Al-Ahli, Firmino’s form has swiftly deteriorated. The Brazilian has gone sixteen league matches without scoring, and a transfer is already being considered.
TalkSPORT reports that English, Turkish, and Saudi clubs are reportedly interested in acquiring Firmino from Al-Ahli in January.
Neymar
Despite the fact that the Brazilian icon has barely touched a ball for Al-Hilal, rumors are already circulating about his future.
Preceding his ACL injury, Neymar reportedly had a strained relationship with head coach Jorge Jesus, who has since issued vitriolic statements.
“Because Cristiano Ronaldo is more devoted to the sport of football, he prioritizes it.” “Because Neymar is more devoted to his private life, he prioritizes other interests,” Jesus stated via AS.
Ademir Quintino, a Brazilian journalist, reported in September that Neymar is eager to return to Santos in 2025.
Santos, who were relegated from the Brazilian premier league only a short time ago, would need to secure a promotion this season in order to have any opportunity of signing Neymar. His wage demands would almost certainly present an obstacle as well.
Jota
Jota, who paid a club-record fee to join Al-Ittihad, has not yet been enrolled for the club’s league campaign due to a restriction on foreign players.
It is highly probable that the 24-year-old will be leaving in January, and we certainly would miss his presence in the Premier League.
Gabri Veiga
In the summer, the 21-year-old generated considerable interest from prominent clubs in Europe as he signed a lucrative contract with Al-Ahli, much to the dismay of others.
A few months later, it has been reported that Veiga is already evaluating his options. Veiga, who is reportedly of interest to Manchester City, is “not entirely content” with his situation in Saudi Arabia, according to Fichajes.
Ruben Neves
Shortly thereafter, rumors began to circulate that the Portuguese midfielder might return to the Premier League. Reportedly, Newcastle were interested in the 26-year-old, but Neves has emphasized that he is content in Saudi Arabia.
“There was interest from Newcastle prior to my arrival, but I’m having a fantastic time here; my family is as well.” Neves disclosed to reporters.
Neves appears likely to remain with Al-Hilal for the time being, given their present league-leading position; however, his long-term future in Saudi Arabia remains debatable.
