In considering the career choices of others, I must emphasize that I am expressing my own thoughts and not speaking on behalf of those I hold in high regard. However, if I were presented with the opportunity to cover the Saudi Pro League and offered a salary four times higher than what I currently receive at Sky Sports and CBS, I would decline. This decision stems from my genuine love for watching and analyzing the best football in the world, which, at present, lies with the Premier League and Champions League. The passion and enthusiasm I have for these leagues would be difficult to replicate when commentating on a league that lacks the same level of talent, history, and tradition.
Certainly, it is understandable that many critics focus on the human rights issues that arise in Saudi Arabia. Henderson, in particular, faces a significant challenge due to his previous statements in support of the LGBTQ+ community. I fully acknowledge and justify the criticism directed towards him. Jordan was highly praised for speaking out, and now he must tackle difficult questions and face negative reactions from communities that rely on support from prominent figures.
When other footballers witness the criticism directed at Henderson, they will not be inclined to say, “I cannot go to Saudi Arabia.” Instead, their advisors will likely advise them to remain silent to avoid accusations of hypocrisy in case they consider a move there in the future. This type of response essentially amounts to buying silence, which is a serious consequence of “sportswashing.” FIFA and other sports governing bodies have also faced criticism for their perceived lack of strength in addressing these issues. These governing bodies possess the power to stipulate that countries must meet certain human rights requirements in order to host major sporting events. It is not feasible to preach inclusive values only to turn a blind eye when personal gain is involved, without expecting criticism.
What we are witnessing in this transfer window is the genuine threat that Saudi Arabia poses to the wealth, power, and quality of European football. This is a cause for concern as it raises questions about the future. While there have been multiple transfers, a game-changing signing has yet to join the Saudi Pro League. However, we have already witnessed renowned players, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, Ruben Neves, and Roberto Firmino, making the move to Saudi clubs. In most cases, fans are content to see surplus players secure good deals, especially if it means additional funds for a replacement.
These are primarily players whose time at elite Champions League-level clubs has come to an end or managers like Gerrard and Nuno Espirito Santo who are seeking to rebuild their reputation and reestablish themselves as coaches. The comparison between the current exodus and the migration of aging stars to the North American Soccer League in the mid-’70s or the Chinese Super League for a brief period of time is inevitable. However, the moves to Saudi Arabia feel different. The available resources could lead to a rapid expansion in the league.
Younger players playing at a high level may eventually view the opportunity to secure a €100 million contract as more attractive than staying in Europe, especially if it does not negatively impact their international ambitions and chances of participating in the World Cup. The recent move of Riyad Mahrez from Manchester City to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli for £30m (€35m) is a prime example. However, the transfer of Bernardo Silva to a Saudi club would truly be eye-opening, given that he is still playing at a level where he could feature for top teams in the world. If such a deal were to occur, it would likely trigger a series of similar moves.
Consider Aleksandar Mitrovic from Fulham, a top Premier League striker who willingly gave up the opportunity to play in the best league in the world due to the extraordinary financial rewards. This is a disheartening trend. It disappoints me to see players, managers, and pundits prioritize money over the quality of competition when they still have so much to offer at the highest level. If this trend continues across Europe, clubs will face significant challenges.
The long-term implications will be detrimental to the Champions League, and those clubs that contemplated forming a “Super League” and were rejected by UEFA may start looking beyond Europe to maximize their revenues. The potential for a destabilizing impact is evident. While some may argue that it is premature to be pessimistic, I believe that the current exodus is not merely a short-term trend. It is unrealistic to expect a multitude of world-renowned players or managers to declare that they will never play or coach in Saudi Arabia. Instead, most individuals will observe the upcoming season with interest and allow their representatives to explore the potential opportunities.
From a football standpoint, Henderson’s departure from Liverpool is no different from the previous moves to Saudi Arabia, and it will likely be similar to future transfers. When we separate the emotional aspect of his transfer from the tremendous contributions he made to the club, it is clear that he leaves Liverpool as a legend. This is not up for debate. It is a mutually beneficial deal for both the player and the club. Liverpool did not stand in Henderson’s way, highlighting their recognition of the positive financial aspects of the move.
The most significant consequences for the Premier League and Champions League will arise when offers from Saudi clubs are accepted by players and coaches in their early to mid-20s, rather than those in their early 30s. (© Telegraph Media Group Ltd, 2023)
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