<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> has made headlines in Saudi Arabia in recent days after opting out of Al Nassr’s most recent match, a decision that reports have framed as a protest aimed at league authorities. Amid that backdrop, the Portuguese star was reportedly blocking a domino effect in the Saudi Pro League involving <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/karim-benzema/">Karim Benzema</a> and N’Golo Kanté.



With several high-profile players, including Fabinho, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/n&apos;golo-kante/">Kanté</a> and Benzema, nearing the end of their contracts, Al Ittihad had been preparing for potential departures during the winter transfer window in an effort to offset previous investments. Among them, the French duo appeared most inclined to seek a move midway through the season, albeit under different circumstances.



Fenerbahce initially pushed to sign Kanté, while Benzema, facing uncertainty over his contract and dissatisfied with an offer on the table, was left out of Al Ittihad’s most recent match. With their star striker potentially on the way out, Al Ittihad pursued Fenerbahce forward Youssef En-Nesyri, structuring a swap deal that would send Kanté back to Europe.



At the same time, Al Hilal emerged as the leading contender to sign Benzema. Fabrizio Romano reported that the striker had already agreed to personal terms, while Kanté had reportedly completed medical tests to finalize his move. Both deals, however, remained pending official approval as the Saudi transfer window approached its close.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/02/01165323/En-Nesyri-and-Kante-1920x1080.webp" alt="Fenerbahce&apos;s Youssef En-Nesyri and Al Ittihad&apos;s Ngolo Kante" class="wp-image-618971"></figure></div><figcaption>Youssef En-Nesyri of Fenerbahce and Ngolo Kante of Al Ittihad.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Ronaldo blocks Benzema and Kanté deals to the detriment of Al Hilal</h2>



According to Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu, Ronaldo opposed Benzema’s potential transfer to Al Hilal, a stance that reportedly factored into his decision to sit out Al Nassr’s last match. That opposition threatened to derail the chain reaction that would have seen Kanté depart as part of the En-Nesyri swap.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/ronaldos-pull-still-matters-as-al-ahlis-ivan-toney-details-the-portuguese-influence-on-his-saudi-pro-league-move/" image="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/02/01154456/Cristiano-Ronaldo-Toney-200x200.webp" excerpt="Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival at Al Nassr has been truly transformative for the Saudi Pro League, drawing the attention of several star players. Al Ahli forward Ivan Toney has even spoken about the importance the Portuguese star had in his own decision to join the league.
" title="Ronaldo’s pull still matters as Al Ahli’s Ivan Toney details the Portuguese influence on his Saudi Pro League move" publication_id="WST#/news/ronaldos-pull-still-matters-as-al-ahlis-ivan-toney-details-the-portuguese-influence-on-his-saudi-pro-league-move/"></div>


<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/cristiano-ronaldos-saudi-pro-league-discomfort-grows-as-reasons-reportedly-emerge-for-al-nassr-absence/">Ronaldo’s frustration is said to stem from dissatisfaction with the Public Investment Fund’s management of Al Nassr</a>, particularly regarding perceived underinvestment. The Portuguese star, echoing sentiments previously voiced by coach Jorge Jesus, has also taken note of what he views as preferential treatment toward Al Hilal, a perception reinforced by the push to bring Benzema to the club.



Further fueling the situation, Record CEO Pedro Sousa reported that the PIF wanted Ronaldo himself to move to Al Hilal ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in June. According to Sousa, Ronaldo rejected the idea of playing for another Saudi club, a decision that further strained relations and added weight to his current stance.



Now with the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/saudi-pro-league/">Saudi Pro League</a> transfer window closed, Ronaldo’s reported plan ultimately fell short. Benzema was officially announced as an Al Hilal player, while RMC Sport reported that Kanté joined Fenerbahce in a €5 million deal, with En-Nesyri’s move expected to be completed in the coming hours. With Al Nassr set to face Al Ittihad next Friday, doubts over Ronaldo’s availability have begun to surface, a development that could signal broader repercussions across Saudi soccer.

Report: Cristiano Ronaldo was blocking Saudi Pro League domino effect involving Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté

Report: Cristiano Ronaldo was blocking Saudi Pro League domino effect involving Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté - World Soccer Talk

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<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/karim-benzema/">Karim Benzema</a> is witnessing a potential exodus at Al Ittihad, even as his own contract situation remains unresolved this season. With N’Golo Kanté reportedly close to an exit from Saudi Arabia, the former Ballon d’Or winner could soon see another star teammate leave during the winter transfer window to join a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/champions-league/">Champions League</a> side.



With Benzema, Fabinho, and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/n&apos;golo-kante/">Kanté</a> all out of contract at the end of the season, Al Ittihad are facing a major squad overhaul, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/world-cup-winner-set-to-leave-cristiano-ronaldos-saudi-pro-league-eyes-return-to-europe/">highlighted by Kanté working toward a move away with Fenerbahce interested in his signature</a>. Now, another European club is pushing to sign a French standout from the Saudi side.



Inter Milan are actively pursuing the signing of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/moussa-diaby/">Moussa Diaby</a> from Al Ittihad. First reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport and later confirmed by Inter CEO Giuseppe Marotta, the Italian club are targeting the winger during the current winter window.



Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter/">Inter</a>’s Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund, Marotta addressed the negotiations and potential hurdles: “I can confirm that we’re in talks to sign Moussa Diaby from Al Ittihad. But as of today, it’s a remote possibility because he’s an important player for his club, and it would be a very expensive operation.“



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/01/28151747/moussa-diaby-al-ittihad-1920x1080.webp" alt="Moussa Diaby of Al Ittihad." class="wp-image-618222"></figure></div><figcaption>Moussa Diaby of Al Ittihad.</figcaption></figure>



According to the Italian outlet, Inter have already reached an agreement with Diaby on personal terms, leaving <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-ittihad/">Al Ittihad</a> to decide on the proposed offer of a loan through the end of the season with a €35 million purchase option. If the move goes through, Brazilian winger Luiz Henrique could depart the Nerazzurri amid interest from Bournemouth and Besiktas.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/karim-benzema-could-replicate-luka-modrics-move-as-juventus-star-opens-door-to-last-dance-in-europe/" image="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/01/25170216/luka-modric-ac-milan-karim-benzema-al-ittihad-200x200.webp" excerpt="With his contract at Saudi Arabia set to expire, a Juventus star opened the doors for Karim Benzema to replicate Luka Modric&apos;s move and have a ＂last dance＂ in Europe.
" title="Karim Benzema could replicate Luka Modrić’s move as Juventus star opens door to ‘last dance’ in Europe" publication_id="WST#/news/karim-benzema-could-replicate-luka-modrics-move-as-juventus-star-opens-door-to-last-dance-in-europe/"></div>


Since joining from Aston Villa in 2024 for €65 million, Diaby has made 52 appearances for Al Ittihad, scoring eight goals and providing 27 assists. After winning both the Saudi Pro League and Saudi Cup last season, he has posted three goals and 11 assists in 24 matches this campaign, and despite being a regular under head coach Sérgio Conceição, a return to Europe now appears possible.



<h2>Benzema also facing uncertainty at Al Ittihad</h2>



Currently sixth in the Saudi Pro League with 30 points from 17 matches, Al Ittihad have struggled to replicate last season’s success, with several stars increasingly focused on their futures. Benzema is no exception, as his time in Saudi Arabia appears to be nearing its end.



According to Ben Jacobs, Benzema asked to be left out of Thursday’s match against Al Fateh, a decision made unilaterally and not by Conceição. The move stems from unproductive contract extension talks with Al Ittihad, with the striker’s deal set to expire at the end of the season and reports linking him to a potential return to Europe.

Not only N'golo Kante: Karim Benzema could see star teammate depart Al Ittihad to join Champions League team

Not only N'golo Kante: Karim Benzema could see star teammate depart Al Ittihad to join Champions League team - World Soccer Talk

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> became the face of soccer in Saudi Arabia following his arrival at Al Nassr in 2022, helping spark a wave of high-profile moves from Europe to the Middle East. However, the momentum generated by his signing may be facing a significant test, as a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/world-cup/">World Cup</a> winner is now reportedly exploring an exit from the Saudi Pro League in favor of a return to Europe.



Since Ronaldo’s move in December 2022, Saudi Arabia has launched an aggressive investment strategy aimed at elevating its domestic league, first by luring elite players with lucrative contracts to boost global interest and broadcast revenue. Still, one of the marquee names who followed Ronaldo to the region now appears close to heading back to Europe.



According to The Athletic’s Jacob Tanswell, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/n&apos;golo-kante/">N’Golo Kanté</a> is in discussions over a potential return to Europe, with Fenerbahçe emerging as a leading destination. The French midfielder’s contract with Al Ittihad is set to expire at the end of the season, and with no extension agreed upon, the Turkish club has moved to capitalize during the winter transfer window.



Alongside Karim Benzema and Moussa Diaby, Kanté has been a cornerstone of Al Ittihad’s project, helping the club capture both the 2024-25 <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/saudi-pro-league/">Saudi Pro League</a> title and the Saudi King Cup. Despite his continued importance as the club attempts to climb back toward the top of the standings, currently sitting sixth in the 2025-26 SPL, it remains unclear whether Al Ittihad would be willing to let the 2018 World Cup winner depart midway through the campaign.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/01/13152317/ngolo-kante-al-ittihad-1920x1080.webp" alt="Ngolo Kante of Al Ittihad." class="wp-image-615645"></figure></div><figcaption>Ngolo Kante of Al Ittihad.</figcaption></figure>



Fenerbahçe have already been active in the market, securing a loan deal for Jhon Durán from Al Nassr and adding Marco Asensio, Fred, and Cenk Tosun to the squad. With sporting director Devin Özek leading negotiations, the Turkish side is reportedly confident it can reach an agreement for Kanté.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/cristiano-ronaldo-suffers-worst-losing-streak-for-the-second-time-in-career-has-lionel-messi-ever-lost-three-consecutive-games-so-far/" image="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/08/17171133/ronaldo-messi-200x200.webp" excerpt="Yet when Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are part of the conversation, even a short run of results can feel historically loaded.
" title="Cristiano Ronaldo suffers worst losing streak for the second time in career: Has Lionel Messi ever lost three consecutive games so far?" publication_id="WST#/news/cristiano-ronaldo-suffers-worst-losing-streak-for-the-second-time-in-career-has-lionel-messi-ever-lost-three-consecutive-games-so-far/"></div>


After failing to qualify for the UEFA Champions League, Fenerbahçe are competing in the Europa League, where they currently sit 12th in the playoff standings, while also holding second place in the Turkish Süper Lig, three points behind Galatasaray. If a deal is finalized in time, Kanté could make his debut in a high-profile Europa League clash against Aston Villa on January 22 at Chobani Stadium in Turkey.



<h2>Foreign players and the decision to leave SPL</h2>



Much like the “Lionel Messi effect” in MLS, Ronaldo’s arrival in the Saudi Pro League has played a pivotal role in accelerating the sport’s growth in the country. Still, several players once positioned as long-term cornerstones of the league have begun to attract renewed interest from European clubs.



One prominent example is João Cancelo, the Portuguese fullback who returned to FC Barcelona on loan during the winter transfer window. Al Hilal midfielder <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/bruno-fernandes-may-receive-a-new-teammate-manchester-united-reportedly-chase-a-ronaldos-saudi-pro-league-star/">Rúben Neves represents another case, with the Portugal international, in a contract situation similar to Kanté’s, reportedly drawing interest from Manchester United</a>.



Al Nassr goalkeeper Bento was also close to completing a move to West Ham United before a red card to starting keeper Nawaf Al Aqidi stalled negotiations. Kanté now joins a growing list of foreign players whose futures appear increasingly tied to Europe rather than a prolonged stay in Saudi Arabia, despite the league’s continued global push under a project headlined by Ronaldo, who remains under contract with Al Nassr through June 2027.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s effect fading? World Cup winner reportedly working on exit from SPL to return to Europe

Cristiano Ronaldo’s effect fading? World Cup winner reportedly working on exit from SPL to return to Europe - World Soccer Talk

As the summer transfer window nears its close, two La Liga sides Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, find themselves in a potential bidding war over the services of N’Golo Kante. The French midfield dynamo is currently plying his trade at Saudi club Al-Ittihad. Kante, who recently returned from a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/ngolo-kante-showing-at-euros-courts-premier-league-rumors/">successful Euro 2024 campaign with France</a>, is reportedly eager to return to Europe.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/atletico-madrid-tv-schedule/">Atletico Madrid</a>, who are restructuring their midfield, have identified the 33-year-old as a key target, Relevo&nbsp;says. The club has been actively seeking reinforcements in central midfield, alongside their search for a central defender. After their failed attempt to get Valencia’s Javi Guerra, the Colchoneros are now focused on securing the Frenchman’s signature. His tenacity and defensive prowess would undoubtedly add depth and resilience to Diego Simeone’s side.



However, the financial aspects of the deal pose a significant challenge. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-euro/resurgence-of-saudi-pro-league-players-at-euro-2024/">Kante</a>‘s salary at Al-Ittihad is substantial, thanks to the lucrative contract he signed upon his arrival in Saudi Arabia. This could make negotiations difficult, as Atleti would likely need to negotiate a lower transfer fee or a potential loan deal. Despite these obstacles, their interest remains strong, they believe Kante could bring much-needed stability and experience to their midfield, even if he isn’t a long-term solution.



<h2>Barcelona back in race with Atletico for N’golo Kante</h2>



Not to be outdone, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/barcelona-tv-schedule/">Barcelona</a> have also reignited their interest in Kante, according to <a href="https://www.sport.es/es/noticias/barca/barca-sigue-atento-situacion-kante-106963992" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sport</a>. The Catalan giants have been dealing with a series of injuries in their midfield. Thus, they are keen on adding a player of Kante’s caliber to their squad. Although Barca coach <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/flick-already-had-deal-with-another-club-before-barcelona-move/">Hansi Flick</a> had initially expressed confidence in the current options at his disposal, the club is now reconsidering their stance.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/16034229/Kante-LaLiga-transfer-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-522568" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



In fact, the Blaugrana’s interest in Kante isn’t new. The Catalans have been monitoring him for the past two years, with his name frequently mentioned in discussions about strengthening their midfield. However, previous attempts to sign him were unsuccessful, primarily due to financial constraints. This time around, Barca are considering a move more seriously, especially if their midfield struggles persist in the early stages of the season.



One of the key factors in their interest is Kante’s unique playing style. The veteran midfielder’s ability to cover ground, break up opposition play, and contribute defensively is something Barcelona currently lacks in their squad. Youngsters like Marc Casado and Marc Bernal have shown promise. However, neither possesses the same level of experience or tactical acumen as Kante. This makes him an attractive option as Barcelona looks to bolster their ranks and compete on multiple fronts this season.



<h2>The challenge of securing Kante</h2>



Despite the clear interest from both Atletico Madrid and Barcelona, securing Kante’s signature will be no easy feat. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/vinicius-junior-offered-1-billion-saudi-pro-league-contract/">Al-Ittihad</a>, the Saudi club that signed him just a year ago, is reportedly reluctant to part ways with the Frenchman. They value his contributions and are not keen on losing such a high-profile player, especially considering the investment they made to bring him to Saudi Arabia.



Moreover, the veteran’s hefty salary presents another hurdle. His current contract with Al-Ittihad is far beyond what most European clubs would be willing or able to match. However, there is hope that if Kante expresses a strong desire to return to Europe, a compromise could be reached. This might involve the player accepting a significant pay cut to facilitate a move back to a top European league.



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

This means war: Barcelona, Atletico Madrid to compete for Kante

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, find themselves in a potential bidding war over the services of N'Golo Kante.

N’Golo Kante returned to the world’s stage at Euro 2024 following his move from Premier League giant Chelsea to the Saudi Pro League. Al-Ittihad has taken Kante’s name out of much of the discussion of top soccer competition. However, his dominating performances in the middle of the field with France showed the world what it has been missing. Kante, at the age of 33, is still a top player. That is enough to get one Premier League team particularly interested.



A new report from <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/article/2024/jul/18/west-ham-in-talks-over-20m-deal-to-bring-ngolo-kante-back-from-saudi-arabia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Guardian</a> says West Ham United is in the market for the Frenchman. West Ham’s new manager, Julen Lopetegui, is a longtime admirer of Kante, and it is clear to see why. During his time in England, Kante was consistently one of the best midfielders in the Premier League. Despite battling injuries at Stamford Bridge, Kante played an integral role in the side’s success. He won the Premier League with the Blues and an FA Cup. Yet, he stood out when Chelsea surprisingly won the UEFA Champions League in the 2020/21 campaign. UEFA named Kante the best midfielder in the Champions League that season. Additionally, he won Man of the Match honors in the Final against Manchester City.



West Ham’s interest in Kante would be one of the first occurrences of a notable player making the switch from the Saudi Pro League to Europe. Droves of players have gone to the Middle East to take up lucrative contracts without the pressure of European soccer. That includes Kante, who signed with Al-Ittihad on a four-year deal last summer. Each season, Kante is <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/ngolo-kante-joins-al-ittihad-in-deal-worth-over-100-million-20230621-WST-438816.html">making $25 million</a>, meaning his compensation with Al-Ittihad at the end of his contract would exceed $100 million.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/07/16035508/Ngolo-Kante-West-Ham-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-517503" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<h2>N’golo Kante content in Saudi Arabia despite Premier League links</h2>



Some players have, despite the money, regretted the switch to the Saudi Pro League. Ruben Neves, who joined Al-Hilal, has said he <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/regret-saudi-league-star-reveals-arsenal-barca-failed-moves-20240228-WST-492067.html">wants to return to Europe</a> one day. To be fair to the Portuguese, he admitted that it would not have to be soon. The same applies to Kante. The midfielder has no issues with the Saudi Pro League, nor does he have any intention of getting out of his lucrative contract.



That said, Kante is open to returning to London. All signs point to a fairly low transfer fee that West Ham would have to pay. Kante would cost West Ham United around $25 million. If that seems like a low fee, it is important to recall that Kante is 33 years old. By the end of the 2024/25 season, he will be 34, which is aging for a midfielder.



Even though previous coaches and teammates have attested that Kante’s endurance is unlike most other soccer players, his prior injury concerns may scare away potential suitors. It would still be good business for Al-Ittihad, which acquired Kante on a free transfer.



If Lopetegui can lure Kante back to London, he will bring on a veteran presence that can fit into any midfield. An engine like Kante in the middle of the park can give Lopetegui, who likes three in the midfield, a key player to build around.



PHOTOS: IMAGO

N'Golo Kante showing at Euros courts Premier League rumors

N'Golo Kante returned to the world's stage at Euro 2024 following his move from Premier League giant Chelsea to the Saudi Pro League.

Newcastle United embarked on a new chapter last summer with the acquisition of Sandro Tonali.



Yet the player’s involvement in a betting controversy caused a major blow for both his team and himself a few months after he signed. 



After withdrawing from Italy’s squad in this month’s FIFA international break, the 23-year-old told police he had <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/newcastle-ponders-lawsuit-against-milan-over-tonali-transfer-20231025-WST-464683.html">wagered on games while playing in Serie A.</a>



Tonali was available to play on Wednesday as Eddie Howe’s team fell to Borussia Dortmund in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-uefa-champions-league-and-europa-league-on-us-tv-and-internet/">UEFA Champions League</a>. Still, he played just 26 minutes off the bench in what would be his last game on the pitch in the 2023-24 campaign.



<h2>Tonali to miss Euro 2024 and early EPL season</h2>



Tonali accepted a plea deal that would keep him out of the game for the rest of the season. The head of the Italian FA, Gabriele Gravina, confirmed that a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/sandro-tonali-expects-10-month-ban-for-betting-with-milan-20231024-WST-464420.html">10-month suspension</a> with eight months of rehabilitation had been agreed upon and thanked Tonali for his participation during the process.



In order to treat his gambling addiction, an additional fine of $13,200 came his way. He also must follow a rehabilitation plan for at least six months. Due to claims that the midfielder bet on <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/ac-milan-tv-schedule/">AC Milan</a> games while still a member of the team, he was expecting a longer sentence initially.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/10/16053928/kante-1200x670-1200x670.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-465705" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div><figcaption>N’Golo Kante is also on Newcastle United’s January shopping list</figcaption></figure>



But it’s thought that a shortened term was made possible by his desire to seek treatment for what his agent refers to as a ‘<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/sandro-tonali-has-an-addiction-to-gambling-says-players-agent-20231017-WST-462506.html">gambling addiction</a>’ and his admission of guilt. He reportedly refrained from betting on the Rossoneri to lose games.



The Italian midfielder’s ban is scheduled to last until late August of the following year, during which time it is anticipated that he will be able to train with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/newcastle-united-tv-schedule/">Newcastle</a>. He will be absent from both <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-european-championship-tv-schedule/">Euro 2024</a> and the first weeks of the 2024-25 Premier League season.



<h2>Newcastle look to two former Premier League stars</h2>



The news of Tonali’s absence is a significant setback for Newcastle’s ambitions. This impacts their chances of securing silverware and making a deep run in the UEFA Champions League. As a result, the English club must swiftly revise their plans for the upcoming January transfer window.



The Magpies are reportedly already compiling a list of backup plans. Tonali’s absence would create a big hole. FFP constraints are the reason Newcastle cannot afford to replace Tonali permanently in January.



The Italian’s suspension means that the Magpies may have to dip into the market. Consequently, Eddie Howe’s team is contemplating a loan move for Ruben Neves, according to reports from <a href="https://talksport.com/football/1617977/newcastle-saudi-arabia-sandro-tonali-ruben-neves-ngolo-kante-transfer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">talkSPORT</a>. 



Neves joined the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/saudi-pro-league-tv-schedule/">Saudi Pro League</a> side Al-Hilal during the summer. This ended his six seasons at Wolves, in which he made 253 appearances at Molineux.



The Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia owns four Saudi Pro League teams, including Al-Hilal. The same organization also owns a controlling share in Newcastle. Meanwhile, as he plays for PIF-owned Al-Ittihad, N’Golo Kante is another player who caught their attention.



Photo credit: IMAGO / Power Sport Images : IMAGO / Focus Images

Newcastle line up two ex-EPL stars to replace Sandro Tonali

In search of a Sandro Tonali replacement, Newcastle are looking at two former Premier League stars in Saudi Arabia

Chelsea centerback Thiago Silva will miss over a month with the latest injury to hit Stamford Bridge. Silva joins Christian Pulisic, N’golo Kante, Cesar Azpilicueta, Armando Broja and Edouard Mendy as players <a href="https://www.premierinjuries.com/teams/chelsea" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">out for an extended period</a> of time. 



Silva’s injury is to his knee, with the club stating he injured ligaments in his left knee during the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/tottenham-beat-chelsea-to-claim-london-derby-bragging-rights-20230226-WST-421430.html">2-0 loss at Tottenham</a> on Sunday. As a result, club doctors ruled out the Brazilian for an estimated six weeks. In the near future, that rules the centerback out of pivotal games at home against Leeds in the Premier League and Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League.



Chelsea <a href="https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/article/thiago-silva-injury-news?utm_source=tw&amp;utm_medium=orgsoc&amp;utm_campaign=non">released a statement</a> stating that Thiago Silva will work closely with the club’s medical staff to return to fitness. <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2023/feb/28/thiago-silva-injured-up-to-six-weeks-graham-potter-chelsea" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Guardian</a> estimates that time away to border on six weeks.



Silva has been a mainstay in Graham Potter’s side this season, featuring in 21 out of 24 Premier League games. He started each of those 21. As a result, he has been witnessing Chelsea’s immense struggles this season. Since the beginning of 2023, Chelsea has one win in nine league games, a 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace. 



<h2>Thiago Silva the latest Chelsea injury</h2>



Assuredly, some of that struggling is because of the aforementioned names unavailable to Graham Potter. However, losses to Southampton and Fulham and draws against Nottingham Forest and West Ham are inexcusable. It is a dark day for Chelsea, especially considering the club spent record fees in the January transfer window to solve the issues.



<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">Continuing our work. 🏃‍♂️ <a href="https://t.co/Y4Ty31AeAz">pic.twitter.com/Y4Ty31AeAz</a>— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1630556423091548162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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However, the one silver lining for Chelsea is that some of these injury woes are lessening. Christian Pulisic, sidelined since early January, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/christian-pulisic-back-in-training-could-return-to-action-next-week-20230223-WST-421058.html">returned to Chelsea training</a> before the Tottenham loss. Same goes for <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2023/feb/21/chelseas-ngolo-kante-returns-to-training-as-club-target-new-deal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">N’golo Kante</a>, as both could be available for the club’s next fixture against Leeds.



Chelsea is desperate for points just to get back into European qualification. As of the end of February, Chelsea is 14 points out of fourth and eight outside of sixth, which would be good enough for the Europa Conference League.



PHOTO: IMAGO / PA Images

Thiago Silva out for six weeks to add to Chelsea woes

Chelsea centerback Thiago Silva will miss over a month with the latest injury to hit Stamford Bridge. Silva joins Christian Pulisic, N'golo Kante, Cesar Azpilicueta, Armando Broja and Edouard Mendy as players out for an extended period of time. Silva's injury is to his knee, with the club stating he injured ligaments in his left [&hellip;]

Chelsea had some injury to insult when the club announced Thiago Silva would be out an extended period with a knock to knee ligaments.

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