“He’s my personal favourite”: Saudi Professional League coach wants to bring in a star from the English Premier League

What happened? There is still interest in the star Mohamed Salah, coming from the English club Liverpool, from the Saudi Professional League. Al-Masry was subjected to great temptation from Al-Ittihad Club during the last transfer period, but this step did not materialize. Saudi League director Michael Emenalo is hopeful of a deal in the future and described the 31-year-old as a “personal favourite”.

What was said: In an interview with tz “Mo is welcome at any time,” Emenalo said. “But no one will be pressured or forced to come. If someone wants to come and there is an opportunity to work with the transferred club in a very respectful and professional way, we will do so.” “Glad to have him. But yeah, Mo’s my personal favorite.”

What is the background? Al-Ittihad, who previously signed Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema from Real Madrid, pushed for a move for Salah late in the transfer window. While Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp has repeatedly ruled out the possibility of his best strikers leaving, Al-Ittihad is said to have offered more than 200 million euros to Salah in the end. But the Reds remained steadfast. Salah’s contract at Anfield extends until 2025.

Meanwhile, Emenalo coordinates the transfer activities of the four major clubs in the Saudi Professional League. A lot of money is available from the state PIF (Public Investment Fund). The former Chelsea official also explained what is looked for when making high-profile signings: “They have to be able to contribute something unique to the league. They have to have intelligence and respect for the culture and the environment. They have to do that.” “Be prepared to work within the framework they work in, to take on a leadership role and to be a teacher. This is the same expectation as in Germany, England and anywhere else where you want to create a great, thriving organization.”

Look at the numbers: Salah joined Liverpool from Roma in 2017 for 42 million euros. With 192 goals, he is now in the top five of the English club’s all-time top scorers. This season, he scored six goals and provided four assists in ten matches.

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What then? Salah is currently spending an international trip with the Egyptian national team. Egypt will face Zambia and Algeria in friendly matches.