Roberto Firmino once hailed as one of the&nbsp;smartest signings&nbsp;of the Saudi Pro League’s summer transfer window, has suffered a&nbsp;brutal exclusion&nbsp;from Al-Ahli’s domestic squad. In a shocking turn of events, the Brazilian forward has been&nbsp;dropped from the club’s <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/saudi-pro-league/">Saudi Pro League</a> roster&nbsp;to make room for a new signing.



This decision echoes the&nbsp;saga of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/neymar/">Neymar</a>&nbsp;at Al-Hilal, where the Brazilian superstar was also left out of his club’s Saudi Pro League squad due to injury concerns. Now, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/roberto-firmino/">Firmino</a> finds himself in a similar predicament, and his future at Al-Ahli looks increasingly uncertain.



The Royals’ decision to axe Firmino was&nbsp;not performance-related alone. The Saudi Pro League allows clubs to register a maximum of&nbsp;10 foreign players, and Firmino was one of several international stars on the club’s books. When the club secured a&nbsp;€50 million deal for Brazilian winger Galeno&nbsp;from Porto in January, they had to make space in their squad.



With other high-profile names such as&nbsp;Riyad Mahrez, Franck Kessie, Edouard Mendy, Ivan Toney, and Gabri Veiga&nbsp;still seen as crucial to the team, the club decided that Firmino was the&nbsp;odd man out. According to reports from Saudi Arabia, the former Liverpool forward was officially&nbsp;dropped from the league squad&nbsp;to accommodate Galeno’s registration.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250207_WST_553832_firmino-al-ahli-1200x675_1855c32a.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="firmino al-ahli " class="wp-image-553837" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/07160658/firmino-al-ahli-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/07160658/firmino-al-ahli-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/07160658/firmino-al-ahli-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/07160658/firmino-al-ahli-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/07160658/firmino-al-ahli-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/07160658/firmino-al-ahli-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/07160658/firmino-al-ahli-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/07160658/firmino-al-ahli.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Despite being omitted from domestic competition, Firmino remains&nbsp;eligible to play in the AFC Champions League. His response on the pitch was immediate, rolling back the years with a&nbsp;stunning bicycle kick goal&nbsp;against Al Sadd.&nbsp;



<h2>Firmino’s future: What now?</h2>



Before the Saudi transfer window closed, there were&nbsp;rumors of an exit&nbsp;for Firmino. However, no move materialized, and as a result, he will&nbsp;stay at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-ahli/">Al-Ahli</a> until at least the summer. However, the ex-Premier League star will be limited to playing in the Asian Champions League for the remainder of the season. His contract runs until&nbsp;2026, but whether he will see it out remains a major question.



A potential return to&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;has been discussed, with&nbsp;Palmeiras&nbsp;emerging as a possible destination. Despite never having played for a top Brazilian club, Firmino remains a highly respected figure in his homeland. With Palmeiras set to participate in the&nbsp;Club World Cup, they could view Firmino as an experienced forward who could boost their squad for the tournament.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250207_WST_553832_neymar-al-hilal-1200x675_cc021c34.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="neymar al-hilal" class="wp-image-543975" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/13134735/neymar-al-hilal-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/13134735/neymar-al-hilal-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/13134735/neymar-al-hilal-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/13134735/neymar-al-hilal-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/13134735/neymar-al-hilal-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/13134735/neymar-al-hilal-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/13134735/neymar-al-hilal-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/13134735/neymar-al-hilal.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Situation similar to Neymar’s</h2>



Firmino’s exclusion mirrors the&nbsp;saga surrounding Neymar at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-hilal-2/">Al-Hilal</a>. When the Brazilian superstar signed for the club, he was expected to be one of the faces of the Saudi Pro League. However, after suffering a serious injury, he was left out of the domestic squad.&nbsp;“Neymar will not be registered in the team for the championship. He can participate in the Asian Champions League,”&nbsp;Al-Hilal manager&nbsp;Jorge Jesus&nbsp;confirmed in January.



Jesus went on to cast doubt over the 33-year-old’s ability to return to his previous level, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/fury-unleashed-neymar-criticizes-his-former-al-hilal-coach-on-second-santos-debut-very-upset/">stating</a>:&nbsp;“Physically, Neymar can no longer play at the level we are used to. Things have become difficult for him, unfortunately.”&nbsp;Eventually, the Blue Waves&nbsp;terminated his contract by mutual consent, allowing him to return to&nbsp;Santos&nbsp;on a short-term deal.

Same fate as Neymar: Al-Ahli shockingly excludes Roberto Firmino from Saudi Pro League squad–What now?

Same fate as Neymar: Al-Ahli shockingly excludes Roberto Firmino from Saudi Pro League squad–What now? - World Soccer Talk

destacadas

Saudi Arabia’s powerhouses are once again making headlines with their&nbsp;ambitious pursuit of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/vinicius-junior/">Vinicius Junior</a>. According to&nbsp;GiveMeSport‘s&nbsp;Ben Jacobs, Saudi dealmakers are&nbsp;prepared to break the world transfer record with a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/eur350-million-saudi-arabia-prepares-historic-offer-to-sign-vinicius-in-2025/">staggering €350 million bid</a>&nbsp;for the Real Madrid superstar.



The Saudi club leading the charge is&nbsp;Al-Ahli, though Cristiano Ronaldo’s&nbsp;Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal&nbsp;have also entered the race for the Brazilian winger. The latter, in particular, has&nbsp;identified Vinicius as the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/vinicius-to-replace-neymar-at-al-hilal-why-real-madrid-would-sell-him-to-saudi-pro-league-if-one-condition-is-met/">ideal replacement for Neymar</a>, who has returned to Santos. Reports from Spain indicate that the&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/saudi-pro-league/">Saudi Pro League</a> side is willing to offer an unprecedented financial package, but Los Blancos’ stance on the matter remains firm.



With speculation mounting over Vinicius’ future, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-madrid/">Real Madrid</a> manager&nbsp;Carlo Ancelotti has finally broken his silence, offering his perspective on the player’s mindset and what he believes will be his final decision.



<h2>Saudi Arabia’s determination: €350m offer on table</h2>



The&nbsp;Saudi Pro League’s interest in Vinicius Junior is not new. Clubs from the Middle East have been&nbsp;monitoring his situation for months, with dealmakers eager to convince the 24-year-old to trade&nbsp;European glory for an unprecedented payday.



Other reports from&nbsp;Diario AS&nbsp;suggest that Al-Hilal is preparing an&nbsp;extraordinary financial package&nbsp;to lure Vinicius away from Madrid. Their proposal is said to include a €300 million transfer fee&nbsp;paid to Real Madrid, a €200 million annual salary&nbsp;for the player, and a five-year deal worth a total of €1 billion.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250129_WST_551129_Vinicius-Junior-3-1200x675_68def8c8.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="Vinicius Junior Globe Soccer Awards" class="wp-image-546191" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29110250/Vinicius-Junior-3-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29110250/Vinicius-Junior-3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29110250/Vinicius-Junior-3-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29110250/Vinicius-Junior-3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29110250/Vinicius-Junior-3-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29110250/Vinicius-Junior-3-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29110250/Vinicius-Junior-3-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/29110250/Vinicius-Junior-3.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Despite Saudi officials repeatedly boasting about their ability to&nbsp;afford Vinicius, no formal bid has been submitted yet. However, their&nbsp;determination remains strong, and their latest meeting with the player’s representatives reportedly included&nbsp;a video presentation detailing their long-term vision&nbsp;to persuade him.



While the Brazilian has publicly expressed his&nbsp;commitment to Real Madrid, the&nbsp;persistent criticism he faces in Spain—including racial abuse—might make him reconsider if presented with an overwhelming financial incentive.



<h2>What is Carlo Ancelotti’s verdict?</h2>



With rumors intensifying,&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/carlo-ancelotti/">Carlo Ancelotti</a> was asked directly&nbsp;about Vinicius’ future during a press conference ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League clash against Brest. The Italian coach wasted no time in&nbsp;shutting down the speculation.



“I understand everything in football,”&nbsp;Ancelotti began.&nbsp;“I understood that [Toni] Kroos left football, but few have understood it. I have understood it as he has understood it. These things are individual decisions and I said it last week. I see the player happy, wanting to stay here and win titles at Real Madrid. He is thinking about choosing glory.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250129_WST_551129_Vinicius-and-Ancelotti-1200x675_0c069d07.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="Vinicius and Ancelotti" class="wp-image-550876" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/27111921/Vinicius-and-Ancelotti-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/27111921/Vinicius-and-Ancelotti-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/27111921/Vinicius-and-Ancelotti-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/27111921/Vinicius-and-Ancelotti-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/27111921/Vinicius-and-Ancelotti-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/27111921/Vinicius-and-Ancelotti-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/27111921/Vinicius-and-Ancelotti-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/27111921/Vinicius-and-Ancelotti.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Ancelotti’s words were clear:&nbsp;he believes the 24-year-old is fully committed to Real Madrid&nbsp;and prioritizes&nbsp;winning trophies over financial gain. Reiterating his confidence in the player’s mindset, the Italian added: “I already said that I saw Vinicius happy and eager to stay here and win titles with Madrid. I think he has preferred glory.”



Despite&nbsp;Saudi Arabia’s relentless pursuit, Real Madrid’s manager remains convinced that&nbsp;Vinicius’ ambition aligns with the club’s vision, ensuring that the Brazilian forward will continue leading the team for years to come.

Real Madrid or Saudi Pro League? Carlo Ancelotti reflects on Vinicius’ next move amid new mega offer talk

Real Madrid or Saudi Pro League? Carlo Ancelotti reflects on Vinicius’ next move amid new mega offer talk - World Soccer Talk

Victor Osimhen’s future is currently in the air after a series of recent dramatic events. Despite just signing a new contract with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/napoli-tv-schedule-for-viewers-in-united-states/">Napoli</a> in December, the club wanted to sell the striker during the summer. 



This, however, has not yet occurred. As a result, Osimhen will likely remain on Napoli’s books, even though they clearly do not want him.



New manager Antonio Conte made his feelings quite clear in the situation by recently bringing in Romelu Lukaku. The Belgian plays the same position as Osimhen and is a direct replacement. 



Napoli and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/chelsea-tv-schedule/">Chelsea</a> were in negotiations regarding Lukaku for much of the summer. The Blues previously insisted on receiving $44 million for the striker. Nevertheless, they eventually had to settle for $33 million.



<h2>Osimhen forced to the sidelines after omission from Napoli squad</h2>



With Lukaku officially in the team, Napoli focused on selling Osimhen. The center-forward looked set to depart the team on Friday amid interest from both Chelsea and Al-Ahli. 



The Blues were willing to sign the striker ahead of the transfer window closing on the night. Nevertheless, Chelsea and Osimhen could not agree to a contract in time.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="800" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240831_WST_525868_imago1002351635h-1200x800_4e446afe.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=800" alt="" class="wp-image-525891" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/imago1002351635h-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/imago1002351635h-300x200.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/imago1002351635h-768x512.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/imago1002351635h-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/imago1002351635h-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Antonio Conte was reunited with Romelu Lukaku at Napoli, preferring the Belgian to Osimhen</figcaption></figure>



The Napoli star did, however, agree to a massive contract with Al-Ahli. The deal would have allowed Osimhen to rake in around $44 million per year. This is essentially four times his current salary with the Italian club. 



Despite the agreement, Napoli did not sanction the move. Al-Ahli apparently could not offer the right amount of money to the opposing team. In turn, the Saudi side swiveled to sign former <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/brentford-tv-schedule/">Brentford</a> striker Ivan Toney instead.



After two moves fell through, Osimhen is now stuck at Napoli. The club, however, has now opted to <a href="https://www.legaseriea.it/it/team/napoli/squadra">remove the star striker</a> from their official <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/serie-a-tv-schedule/">Serie A</a> squad. This means that the Nigeria international now cannot even feature for the team during league play this season. 



<h2>Striker may have to wait until January to move on from club</h2>



Defender Mario Rui was left out of the squad too. The move was to make room for new incoming players. 



Former <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/roma-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Roma</a> star Leonardo Spinazzola was brought in earlier in the summer to compete with Mathias Olivera at Rui’s left-back position.



Along with the free deal for Spinazzola, Napoli also spent $165 million on a series of new players. 



This list includes Alessandro Buongiorno, Scott McTominay, David Neres, Billy Gilmour, and the aforementioned Lukaku. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/juventus-tv-schedule/">Juventus</a> was the only Serie A team to spend more money on transfers this summer than Napoli.



Osimhen could possibly still be on the move to a Saudi team. Although many European transfer windows are shut, Saudi clubs can sign new players for a further week. A switch to Al-Ahli, however, seems extremely unlikely due to their move for Toney. 



As a result, Osimhen may have to wait on the sidelines until a potential move away from Italy in January. The European transfer window opens back up in the new year. At the moment, this appears to be the most likely scenario for the striker.



Photo credits: IMAGO / NurPhoto : IMAGO / Gribaudi/ImagePhoto

Osimhen left in limbo after being removed from Napoli squad

Napoli has omitted Victor Osimhen from their Serie A squad for the season. The decision comes after the striker failed to move on transfer deadline day.

Osimhen left in limbo after being removed from Napoli squad - World Soccer Talk

Although he has only been at Saudi club Al-Ahli for six months, former Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino may be ready to call it quits.



When his contract with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/liverpool-tv-schedule/">Liverpool</a> expired in June 2023, the Brazilian striker chose to depart for free. The wealthy Saudi Pro League (SPL), Al-Ahli then <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/the-year-in-review-the-top-soccer-stories-in-2023-20231219-WST-475178.html">swooped in over the summer</a> and grabbed the 32-year-old.



Following Firmino’s lead, Riyad Mahrez and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/saint-maximin-set-to-join-al-ahli-after-newcastle-departure-20230729-WST-446406.html">Allan Saint-Maximin</a> also swapped English teams for Al-Ahli. Their combination of style and technical prowess gave the impression that the three would be one of the league’s most frightening front threes.



Unfortunately, they are now 13 points behind league leaders Al-Hilal. Even if Firmino and company have had their fair share of problems, being in third place belies some of those difficulties



So far this season, Firmino has seen action in 18 games for the Saudi Pro League club. But things haven’t looked good for him thus far with the Royals, with only three goals and three assists to show.



After a stellar start, he went scoreless in his subsequent nine matches. Worse still, has only appeared in six appearances since then – all from the bench. Consequently, he has faced backlash from the Al Ahli faithful.



<h2>How has Firmino fared is Saudi Arabia so far?</h2>



Everyone thought the SPL scored a major victory with Roberto Firmino’s move. The addition of a legendary player at the height of his career demonstrated the league’s growing appeal.



The Brazilian, who wowed the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-premier-league-on-us-tv-internet/">Premier League</a> while playing for Liverpool, had high expectations. However, he has been underwhelming for Al-Ahli, leading to speculation of a possible leaving.



According to <a href="https://talksport.com/football/1693121/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">talkSPORT</a>, there is a possibility that Firmino might be on the move in early 2024, probably on loan. This could happen despite the fact that his contract with Al-Ahli doesn’t expire until June 2026.



It is said that the striker’s patience has run out with the Al-Ahli method. The only thing that has happened as a consequence is that the former Premier League player is exploring his new club choices.



Furthermore, his club may be open to loaning the Brazilian out in January. Any number of European and Brazilian clubs are said to have taken notice of this.



Sheffield United, certain Saudi Arabian clubs, and teams from Turkey are closely watching the Brazilian. Under former manager Paul Heckingbottom, Sheffield kept tabs on him in anticipation of a potential surprise move for the player.



The Blades may no longer be a possibility, however, due to his dismissal and Chris Wilder’s reappointment.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="436" height="483" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20231230_WST_480520_image-30_3957db96.webp&amp;width=436&amp;height=483" alt="" class="wp-image-480628" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/12/image-30.png 436w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/12/image-30-271x300.png 271w" sizes="(max-width: 436px) 100vw, 436px"></figure><figcaption>Roberto Firmino has struggled since leaving Liverpool in the summer</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Saudi stay possible?</h2>



Other teams said to be interested include Steven Gerrard’s Al Ettifaq. The former Liverpool captain has lately spoken highly of the seasoned attacker.



“I obviously know Bobby extremely well, I’ve been a massive fan. I’ve followed him for years,” Gerrard said, via <a href="https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/steven-gerrard-takes-responsibility-nightmare-28367151" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Liverpool Echo</a>.



“At the moment he’s Al-Ahli’s player so it’s very difficult for me to comment on that situation. But I’ve loved Bobby Firmino since the first day I watched him and I’m a huge fan. He belongs to another club, so I won’t sit here and name names.”



Even while Al-Ahli would rather have Firmino stay in Saudi Arabia, the 2019 Copa America champion is free to return to Europe or his home Brazil if he so desires.



Photo credit: IMAGO / Power Sport Images.

Former EPL star ready to quit Saudi nightmare after six months

Although he has only been at Saudi club Al-Ahli for six months, former Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino may be ready to call it quits.

Former EPL star ready to quit Saudi nightmare after six months - World Soccer Talk

According to reports, Marco Verratti and Julian Draxler of Paris Saint-Germain are set to join the mass migration of European players to the Middle East this summer.



For <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/luis-enrique-opens-up-on-marco-verrattis-future-with-psg-20230903-WST-453843.html">Marco Verratti</a>, this season has gotten off to a convoluted start. 



The French champions had been eager to get rid of the veteran midfielder after he was left off their UEFA Champions League Group Stage roster.



The 30-year-old was allegedly informed earlier this summer that he is no longer needed by Luis Enrique’s squad despite having a contract with the club until the summer of 2026. 



After starting his career at Pescara, Verratti moved to the French capital in 2012 and has remained there ever since.



<h5>Verratti agrees deal with Al-Arabi</h5>



And it seems that Verratti’s tenure at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/psg-tv-schedule/">PSG</a> is winding down. He is expected to join the migration of star players from Europe to the Middle East this summer. Scores of players have already left the continent’s top divisions for the substantial money on offer in the region.



The Italian ace is reportedly close to completing a deal with Al-Arabi after the midfielder verbally agreed to terms with the Qatari team, as reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The midfielder is expected to depart for Doha within the next 24 hours.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Marco Verratti to Al Arabi, here we go! Verbal agreement finally sealed with the Italian midfielder who’s set to sign on a permanent deal with Qatari club 🇶🇦🇮🇹 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AlArabi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AlArabi</a> Understand Verratti will travel to Doha in the next 24 hours. PSG agreed on €45m fee 10 days ago, it’s done. <a href="https://t.co/sUyKjqdhG0">pic.twitter.com/sUyKjqdhG0</a>— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1700799342511116348?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



In addition, a permanent move will follow, with the Red-and-Blues receiving a price of about $48 million. Thus, the French club will recoup a good chunk of the $13 million they invested in the midfielder more than a decade ago.



<h5>Draxler expected to follow suit</h5>



Draxler seems destined to be heading in the same direction, to the Middle East, as per the French daily <a href="https://www.lequipe.fr/Football/Actualites/Transferts-marco-verratti-et-julian-draxler-vont-quitter-le-psg-pour-signer-au-qatar/1418837" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">L’Equipe</a>. 



The German midfielder, who had been on loan at Benfica, wasn’t included in PSG’s plans upon his return. Draxler is expected to join Al-Ahli, with whom a full deal was just struck, after apparently turning down a transfer to Crystal Palace.



However, because of his family’s reservations, the German international has requested further time to think about the transfer. Since the transfer window in Qatar is closing on September 18, he just has a little over a week to make a final decision.



Photo credit: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire

PSG to earn great profit after shipping two 'undesirables' to Qatar

Two of PSG's 'undesirables' are expected to bring in a profit for them, allowing them to recuperate more than they spent for them.

PSG to earn great profit after shipping two 'undesirables' to Qatar - World Soccer Talk

Allan Saint-Maximin has officially confirmed that he has left <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/newcastle-united-tv-schedule/">Newcastle</a>. The electric winger was essentially an instant hit following his arrival from French side Nice in 2019. Although not necessarily a natural goalscorer, the Frenchman won over the Magpies crowd with his electric pace and bag of tricks. Saint-Maximin will now head to Saudi Arabia to play for Al-Ahli.



<h2>Frenchman issues warm goodbye to Magpies</h2>



Although the transfer has not yet been officially announced, Saint-Maximin declared his departure on social media. In a heartfelt post on his Twitter account, the pacy player proclaimed that he loves Newcastle and their fans. “I’m leaving Newcastle as it should always have been and that’s my greatest trophy because I was a part of it,” <a href="https://twitter.com/asaintmaximin/status/1685212613326647297" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stated</a> Saint-Maximin.



“A deep thank you to ALL of you, my teammates, the loyal fans, the staff, the club, etc. I’ve seen all your messages. Thank you and even though this chapter has ended, the story never stops. Newcastle is home now. I’ll continue to be your biggest supporter. I’ll watch every game and as long as the club keeps winning I’ll be the happiest man in the world. I love you. Once a Geordie, always a Geordie.”



Al-Ahli is expected to pay Newcastle a transfer fee in the region of $38 million. Saint-Maximin has already reportedly completed the first part of his medical at his new club and will soon sign a contract that will run until 2026.



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Allan Saint-Maximin gives Newcastle United crucial breakthrough | Premier League | NBC Sports" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BaKeW8z2e9E?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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<h2>Winger third EPL star to sign with Al-Ahli this summer</h2>



Along with the Frenchman, Al-Ahli has also signed three other <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a> stars. Roberto Firmino and Riyad Mahrez will join Saint-Maximin up front for a lethal attack. Former <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/chelsea-tv-schedule/">Chelsea</a> goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has also signed with the Saudi side as well.



Newcastle has essentially already brought in their replacement for Saint-Maximin. The Magpies grabbed Harvey Barnes from recently relegated Leicester City. Barnes is set to slot in out on the left flank for his new team. The English winger cost the club around $48 million.



Photo: IMAGO / News Images

Allan Saint-Maximin has issued a heartfelt goodbye to Newcastle fans as he is set to join Saudi side Al-Ahli for a significant transfer fee.

Saint-Maximin set to join Al-Ahli after Newcastle departure - World Soccer Talk

Saint-Maximin set to join Al-Ahli after Newcastle departure

Manchester City and Saudi Arabia club Al-Ahli agreed on a transfer fee of roughly $39 million for Riyad Mahrez.



The Algerian winger has been considering a transfer to the Saudi Pro League for some time now due to a very substantial contract offer. This summer, Al-Ahli has made many <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a> transfers. For example, Edouard Mendy and Roberto Firmino joined the Saudi club.



<a href="https://theathletic.com/4703640/2023/07/19/riyad-mahrez-al-ahli-transfer-manchester-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Athletic</a> reports that an agreement has been reached between <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-city-tv-schedule/">Manchester City</a> and Al-Ahli, confirming the player’s transfer to the Saudi club. They claim that the total value of the transaction will be $33 million, with an additional $6 million in potential add-ons.



<h2>Riyad Mahrez agrees Al-Ahli move to Saudi Arabia</h2>



On Thursday, Mahrez will undergo a medical examination before signing a three-year deal with an additional year’s option. No question, the 32-year-old will be a difficult player to replace. 



For instance, he was consistently ruthless in the Premier League last year. He contributed a goal every 128 minutes. In a total of 30 Premier League games last year, he contributed 15 goals for his team.



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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Riyad Mahrez was the first African player to win five Premier League titles 🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 <a href="https://t.co/OghIczyKYZ">pic.twitter.com/OghIczyKYZ</a>— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNFC/status/1681702946872909824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h5>Manchester City hasfound his replacement</h5>



Manchester City will have a hard time finding a player with such stats. Yet, it already has a process of naming a potential replacement for Mahrez. As a result, the newest rumors have City targeting Barcelona winger Raphinha as its ‘primary’ signing.



The Brazilian winger has Premier League experience following two successful seasons with Leeds United. He joined <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/barcelona-tv-schedule/">Barcelona</a> for $70 million last summer and has excelled ever since. His first season in La Liga was impressive, as he contributed seven goals and seven assists.



The Athletic adds that the Citizens have a contingency plan to sign a winger after Mahrez’s imminent departure. Nevertheless, the club is resolute in its desire to retain Bernardo Silva. Al-Hilal and other Saudi Arabian clubs are interested in the Portuguese player.



PHOTO: IMAGO / Gonzales Photo

Pep Guardiola believes that a Barcelona star will be the perfect alternative when Manchester City sanction a treble-winner departure.

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