
<p>After nearly one year,<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/marcelo-gallardo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marcelo Gallardo</a> </strong>will return to the coaching chair, but not where he wanted, or many pundits thought he’d end up. According to various sources and reports, the Argentine manager will become the head coach of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/saudi-pro-league" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saudi Pro League </a>giant <strong>Al-Ittihad.</strong></p>



<p>Gallardo, who had turned down offers to coach in MLS, Brazil, some European teams, and Mexico had his eye in Europe, and a long-term project, but after failing to land a European club, the former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/river-plate" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">River Plate</a> legend jumped on the chance to coach Al-Ittihad, who has the Club World Cup in December and could give Gallardo more exposure.</p>



<p>According to TyC Sports, Gallardo will sign a year and a half deal with Al-Ittihad, who are fifth in the Saudi Pro League, and has <strong>Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, Fabinho, Luiz Felipe, and Abderrazak Hamdallah</strong> on the roster.</p>



<h2>Why did Marcelo Gallardo not land in Europe?</h2>



<p>After nine successful seasons coaching River Plate, Gallardo won 14 titles and compiled a 251-85-111 record. Gallardo won two Copa Libertadores, one of which was by defeating Boca Juniors, and was runner up at the Club World Cup in 2015. Gallardo also won a title with Nacional of Uruguay, his first coaching experience.</p>


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<p>Despite all his fame and accomplishments, Gallardo was seen as a “gamble” to many teams in Europe. Today many sporting directors are not willing to take a chance on a “unknown” commodity like Gallardo. Despite being linked to PSG, Monaco, Leeds, Valencia, Sevilla, and Everton, Gallardo turned down many job opportunities and never got past the finish line in others.</p>



<h2>Marcelo Gallardo’s career</h2>



<p>As a player, Gallardo played for River Plate, Monaco, PSG, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/the-top-15-best-players-in-dc-united-history-20201222-0006.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DC United</a>, and Nacional of Uruguay. He won titles at all of the clubs he played for. At the national team level, Gallardo played in two World Cups for Argentina in 1998 and 2002.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20231115_BUS_85488_Marcelo-Gallardo-1024x572.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-31696" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/Marcelo-Gallardo-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/Marcelo-Gallardo-300x168.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/Marcelo-Gallardo-768x429.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/Marcelo-Gallardo.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Gallardo at DC United and the club’s first ever DP (MLS) </figcaption></figure>



<p>As a manager along with his championships he was South American manager of the year on three occasions, Copa Libertadores manager of the season twice, and is considered one of the best Argentine managers at the moment.</p>


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Marcelo Gallardo set to take over Al-Ittihad

Marcelo Gallardo set to take over Al-Ittihad - Bolavip US

miniaturas


<p><strong>N’Golo Kanté</strong> is quality, but Al-Ittihad already knew that when they signed the French star to a two-year $209 million deal back in 2023. Since his arrival in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/saudi-pro-league" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saudi Pro League</a>, Kanté has scored a goal and been his usual elegant self for Al-Ittihad.<br></p>



<p>Al-Ittihad is currently fourth in the Saudi Pro League and is one of the top clubs in the country. Playing with Fabinho and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/karim-benzema" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karim Benzema</a>, Kanté is hopeful he can get his team to win a Saudi Pro League title.<br></p>



<p>Kanté took the time to speak with L’Equipe, and detailed how impressed he has been with the Saudi Pro League as a whole.<br></p>



<h2>N’Golo Kanté: Saudi League just as good as Ligue 1<br></h2>



<p>N’Golo Kanté told L’Equipe,<em><strong> ‘For the names that went to Saudi Arabia, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Saudi league is better than the French.’</strong></em> Kanté’s form has been so good in Saudi Arabia that French outlets are beginning to demand he return to the national team.<br></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20231017_BUS_76636_NGolo-Kante-1024x576.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-76637" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/NGolo-Kante-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/NGolo-Kante-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/NGolo-Kante-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/NGolo-Kante-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/NGolo-Kante.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption><strong>N’Golo Kanté</strong> (Getty Images) </figcaption></figure>



<p>Kanté was a part of the miracle Leicester City side that won the Premier League in 2016, and at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chelsea" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chelsea</a> the French World Cup winner played seven seasons with the club winning six titles.<br></p>


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<h2>Conor Gallagher to Saudi Pro League<br></h2>



<p>According to reports, the Saudi Pro League has their sights set on another Chelsea player and that is midfielder Conor Gallagher. The 23-year-old has featured in eight matches this season but could get a deal sent his way.<br></p>


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<p>Al-Ettifaq is the team reported to be interested in the Chelsea midfielder, Al-Ettifaq is currently seventh in the Saudi Pro League.</p>


N'Golo Kanté shares his thoughts about the Saudi Pro League

N'Golo Kanté shares his thoughts about the Saudi Pro League - Bolavip US


<p>In recent days, several reports have informed that there’s interest coming from <strong>Saudi Arabia</strong> to acquire <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mohamed-salah" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mohamed Salah</a></strong>. <strong>Jurgen Klopp</strong>, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/liverpool" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Liverpool’s</a> coach</strong>, has now reacted to those <strong>rumors</strong>, giving a <strong>blunt response</strong> to the information about the winger.</p>



<p>In 2017, Liverpool made a significant move by offering <strong>$45 million to AS Roma</strong> for the acquisition of Mo Salah. This marked the <strong>return </strong>of the Egyptian winger to the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/premier-league" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Premier League</a></strong>, where he had previously faced challenges during his time at <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chelsea" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chelsea</a></strong>.</p>


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<p>However, Salah’s arrival brought  a lot of possitive changes to Liverpool. He has been a key piece for the team, <strong>winning seven titles with the Reds</strong>, including a <strong>Champions League</strong> and a <strong>Premier League</strong>.</p>



<h2>Jurgen Klopp’s addresses Mo Salah’s rumors about joining Al Ittihad</h2>



<p>The <strong>Saudi Pro League</strong> has been acquiring several elite players in recent months since <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cristiano Ronaldo’s</a> arrival</strong>. Numerous clubs have <strong>bolstered their rosters</strong>, and Al Ittihad wants to further improve theirs.</p>



<p>According to rumors, <strong>Al Ittihad</strong> has asked Liverpool about Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian is under <strong>contract until 2025</strong>, but the Saudi squad is willing to offer over <strong>$100 million for the winger</strong>.</p>



<p>However, Klopp is not interested in parting ways with Salah. When asked by a Sky Sports reporter, <em>“The <strong>Mo Salah to Al Ittihad story hasn’t quite gone away</strong>, has it</em>?” the coach replied, <strong><em>“For me, it has.”</em></strong></p>


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<p>Sky Sports reported that Al Ittihad is willing to offer Salah a<strong> 3-year, $300 mi</strong>llion deal to join their cause. While the Egyptian has stated his commitment to Liverpool, these <strong>lucrative contracts</strong> have <strong>enticed many top players</strong> to move to Saudi Arabia in recent times.</p>








Jurgen Klopp's blunt reaction to rumors about Mo Salah leaving Liverpool

The stars who have joined Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia

Karim Benzema debuts with amazing goal and assist for Al Ittihad

Klopp's blunt reaction to rumors about Mo Salah leaving Liverpool - Bolavip US


<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/karim-benzema" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karim Benzema</a></strong> made his debut with <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/al-ittihad" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Al Ittihad</a></strong>, and it was what everybody expected it to be. The <strong>French forward</strong> shone in his team’s <strong>victory against ES Tunis</strong> by scoring an <strong>incredible goal</strong> and <strong>assisting </strong>in another one.</p>



<p><strong>Al Ittihad</strong> fans are thrilled for what the team’s front office has been doing this year. They signed <strong>several stars</strong> during this summer, but of course Karim Benzema is seen as the biggest of them all.</p>


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<p>The <strong>former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/real-madrid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Real Madrid</a> player</strong> arrived with high expectations on him. Now, in his first game with his new club, Benzema proved his value by being a key piece in his team’s victory against ES Tunis in the <strong>2023 Arab Club Champions Cup</strong>.</p>



<h2>Watch: Karim Benzema assists to tie the game</h2>



<p>During the first half of the game against ES Tunis and with the <strong>score 1-0 against</strong> Al Ittihad, <strong>Benzema assisted Abderrazak Hamdallah</strong>, who scored the equalizer with a very good header.</p>



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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Benzema with an assist on his Al Ittihad debut! He 100% meant that btw 😂😂<a href="https://t.co/oH7o6jASgt">pic.twitter.com/oH7o6jASgt</a></p>— Noodle Vini (@vini_ball) <a href="https://twitter.com/vini_ball/status/1684653987570528256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>Watch: Karim Benzema scores an amazing goal to turn the game around</h2>



<p>In the second half, the French striker received the ball on the <strong>left side</strong> of the pitch, <strong>ran towards the center</strong>, and shot to <strong>score </strong>an <strong>incredible goal</strong>, securing the <strong>final 1-2 victory for Al Ittihad</strong>.</p>



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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">BENZEMA TURNS THE GAME AROUND FOR AL ITTIHAD!!! WHAT A GOAL!!!<a href="https://t.co/vGiYKRdwxU">pic.twitter.com/vGiYKRdwxU</a></p>— Noodle Vini (@vini_ball) <a href="https://twitter.com/vini_ball/status/1684660241286217728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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It\&#039;s not money: Karim Benzema explains key motivation for joining Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia

Video: Karim Benzema shines with goal and assist in his debut with Al Ittihad - Bolavip US

Video: Karim Benzema shines with goal and assist in his debut with Al Ittihad


<p id="block-3a60ab07-241d-4671-809d-c1ee90583328">The transfer of 2018 World Cup winner <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/n%27golo-kante" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">N’Golo Kante</a></strong> from <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chelsea" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chelsea</a></strong> to Saudi Arabian powerhouse <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/al-ittihad" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Al-Ittihad</a></strong> has been finalized. Kante was free to sign with any other team this summer since the five-year deal with the Blues is set to end on June 30.</p>



<p>During his stay at the Stamford Bridge, he helped the team win <strong>four major titles</strong>: the FA Cup, the Premier League, the UEFA Europa League, and the UEFA Champions League. However, despite being a key member of the squad, the 32-year-old was limited to only nine games due to various injuries during his last season in England.</p>



<p id="block-46d47f82-fe0b-427f-95d5-20f6a2658453">After his fellow Frenchman, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/karim-benzema" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karim Benzema</a> departed Real Madrid and recently secured a three-year deal with Al-Ittihad, he is now set to join him at the club. The midfielder also follows <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>, who moved to Al-Nassr in January, as the most recent high-profile ex-Premier League player to sign with a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/saudi-pro-league" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saudi Pro League</a> team.</p>



<h2 id="block-1fd5466f-5304-44d6-afcd-38abf82dc258">N’Golo Kante’s&nbsp;contract with Al-Ittihad</h2>



<p id="block-ce1f54ac-8397-4d42-85ad-61ea685a3242">Following the conclusion of his contract with Chelsea this summer, N’Golo Kante has signed a <strong>four-year contract </strong>with Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad until the year 2027, the club confirmed.</p>



<h2 id="block-d17363e7-9098-482c-ab03-2477bfc4a68a">How much does N’Golo Kante make a week?</h2>



<p id="block-23235e06-41e0-469a-8105-c903e75214c3">Over the course of his four-year deal, N’Golo Kante would earn a staggering sum of money totaling about <strong>€100 million.</strong> According to Fabrizio Romano, the French midfielder will make almost <strong>€25 million every season</strong> throughout his time at Al Ittihad.</p>


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<p id="block-23235e06-41e0-469a-8105-c903e75214c3">Taking this account, the player&nbsp;would earn about<strong>&nbsp;€2 million&nbsp;</strong>per&nbsp;month or&nbsp;<strong>€480,000 </strong>a week. That would make it nearly&nbsp;<strong>€96,000&nbsp;</strong>a day,&nbsp;or around&nbsp;<strong>€12,769</strong>&nbsp;per hour, or<strong>&nbsp;€200&nbsp;</strong>per minute.</p>


N'Golo Kante's salary at Al-Ittihad: How much he makes per minute, hour, day, week, month, and year - Bolavip US

N'Golo Kante's salary at Al-Ittihad: How much he makes per minute, hour, day, week, month, and year


<p>When<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cristiano Ronaldo</a></strong> proclaimed that the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/saudi-pro-league" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saudi Pro League</a></strong> had the potential to rank among the world’s top five leagues, it is possible that more people should have paid attention. Instead, his remarks were met with scoffs and skeptical glances.</p>



<p>After the Portuguese veteran had transferred to <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/al-nassr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Al-Nassr</a></strong> in January, a flurry of other A-list players was expected to follow suit. Current Ballon d’Or winner <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/karim-benzema" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karim Benzema</a> </strong>is now getting ready to make his debut for <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/al-ittihad" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Al-Ittihad</a></strong>, who won the Saudi Pro League league this season. </p>



<p>The Frenchman spent more than a decade with <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/real-madrid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Real Madrid</a></strong>, where he finished second in scoring all-time behind Ronaldo during his 14 seasons at Santiago Bernabeu. The five-time UEFA Champions League champion is certainly a huge loss for Los Blancos, as coach Carlo Ancelotti will struggle to find a replacement.</p>



<h2>What did Karim Benzema do on Instagram?</h2>



<p>It seems like Karim Benzema has already moved on from Real Madrid and doesn’t appear too fazed by the situation he has left behind. Fans with keen eyes have noted that two weeks after signing for Al-Ittihad, the 35-year-old has <strong>unfollowed his former side on Instagram.</strong></p>



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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="in" dir="ltr">📲❌ Karim Benzema unfollows Real Madrid on IG. <a href="https://t.co/Wl1jSwVHWd">pic.twitter.com/Wl1jSwVHWd</a></p>— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) <a href="https://twitter.com/theMadridZone/status/1670481409633398784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>Various supporters of the La Liga giants have resorted to social media to voice their outrage, calling the decision ‘shocking and absurd’. They further claim that the Frenchman, despite having left Lyon in 2009, continues to follow the team on Instagram.</p>



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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Karim Benzema unfollowing Real Madrid is low key hurting me. I mean even Ronaldo doesn’t follow Real Madrid on Instagram but still, this feels shocking and absurd for me considering he still follows Lyon.</p>— Ashish اشيش (@RMadridEngineer) <a href="https://twitter.com/RMadridEngineer/status/1670475387606900737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>According to the Whites’ fan base, the club’s policy of only following active squad members on social media led Madrid to unfollow the superstar first. It has thus been argued, however, that legendary players like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sergio-ramos" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sergio Ramos</a>, Gareth Bale, Casemiro, and Marcelo<strong> continue to follow</strong> the Real Madrid official account despite this.</p>



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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Yes I do understand this but Ramos, Bale, Casemiro, Marcelo like players continue to follow.</p>— Ashish اشيش (@RMadridEngineer) <a href="https://twitter.com/RMadridEngineer/status/1670481103910576129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Social media storm: Karim Benzema's controversial Instagram move leaves Real Madrid fans fuming - Bolavip US

Social media storm: Karim Benzema's controversial Instagram move leaves Real Madrid fans fuming


<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/karim-benzema" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karim Benzema</a></strong>‘s recent transfer from <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/real-madrid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Real Madrid</a> to Saudi Arabian champions <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/al-ittihad" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Al-Ittihad</a></strong> is the latest example of the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/saudi-pro-league" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saudi Pro League</a></strong> creating headlines with massive statement acquisitions. When<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> </strong>left Europe for <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/al-nassr">Al-Nass</a><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/al-nassr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">r</a></strong> last winter, he brought international attention to the sport in Saudi Arabia.</p>



<p>What is interesting is that more A-list players are expected to go to the Middle East. There have also been <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/former-french-teammate-would-join-karim-benzema-at-al-ittihad-with-e100m-salary-report-20230606-BUS-6811.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extensive rumors</a> involving superstars like Kalidou Koulibaly, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/n%27golo-kante" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">N’Golo Kante</a>, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.</p>



<p>Four of the biggest football teams in the kingdom, including Al-Nassr, where Cristiano Ronaldo plays, are rumored to be acquired by the Public Investment Fund (PIF). Since Saudi clubs are not restricted by UEFA’s spending limits, the PIF may give <strong>whatever wages they see necessary</strong> to attract the world’s best players to the Middle East, unlike other European teams.</p>



<h2>What were Saudi Arabian clubs found guilty of?</h2>



<p>The <strong>International Federation of Professional Football Players (FIFPRO)</strong>, which represents 65,000 players throughout the globe, has issued a warning to its members to avoid playing for Saudi Arabian teams. Clubs in Saudi Arabia have been accused of <strong>not paying their players fairly </strong>after a stinging report was released by FIFPRO.</p>



<p><em>The Athletic</em> has published details from the investigation that illustrate many concerning situations. For example, there have been several situations when Saudi Arabian teams were involved in a<strong> salary dispute.</strong> Forward Lewis Grabban, formerly of Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest, spent just three months at Al-Ahli before departing.</p>



<p>After not receiving a signing bonus or two months’ pay, Grabban allegedly asked for £2.2 million in damages. An arbitrator ruled that Al-Ahli should pay Grabban <strong>$500,000 in back wages and $700,000 in damages </strong>for breach of contract, and the club was also barred from registering new players for<strong> “two entire and consecutive registration periods.”</strong></p>


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<p>Not only are they not alone among clubs, but they also contributed to the scandal. A similar issue in November resulted in a $2.5 million payout to Brazilian player Petros, who played for Al-Nassr, Ronaldo’s side.</p>


Massive wages scandal rocks Saudi Arabia with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema's clubs implicated - Bolavip US

Massive wages scandal rocks Saudi Arabia with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema's clubs implicated


<p>After <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cristiano Ronaldo</a></strong>‘s transfer to <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/al-nassr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Al-Nassr</a> </strong>in January 2023, more top European players may start considering a move to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/saudi-pro-league" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Saudi Pro League</strong></a>. Following in the Portuguese’s footsteps, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/karim-benzema" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karim Benzema</a></strong> just signed for Al-Ittihad, and <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/n%27golo-kante" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">N’Golo Kante</a></strong> is anticipated to be announced as his new partner shortly.</p>



<p>In the meantime, Al-Hilal had an interest in signing <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lionel Messi</a> </strong>earlier in the summer, but the Argentine World Cup winner ultimately opted for a transfer to Major League Soccer and signed with Inter Miami instead. His former PSG colleague <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sergio-ramos" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sergio Ramos</a></strong> is also a possible target for a Saudi Arabian club.</p>



<p>The Spanish defender’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain will expire at the end of the month, and he will be leaving the club. On the other hand, whether or not Real Madrid veteran midfielder <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/luka-modric" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luka Modric</a></strong> chooses to reunite with his old pals in the Middle East remains to be seen.</p>



<h2>Will Luka Modric leave Real Madrid and move to Saudi Arabia?</h2>



<p>Many reports suggested that Luka Modric has agreed to a one-year contract extension with Real Madrid, making his future at the Santiago Bernabeu seem certain. However, after receiving a lucrative contract offer from Saudi Arabia, he is allegedly now <strong>exploring a move.</strong></p>



<p>According to French journalist Romain Molina, the Croatian is giving serious thought to the <strong>€80 million + €20 million </strong>offer from Saudi Arabia for two seasons. Both the Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli and the Qatari side Al-Sadd are willing to pay a hefty sum for the veteran.</p>


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<p>In addition, Borja Couce, the agent of the Madrid superstar, has taken to Instagram to follow Saudi squads Al-Ahli, Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Nassr, addin<strong>g fuel to the speculation.</strong></p>



<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"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨| Luka Modric&apos;s agent, Borja Couce, has started following Saudi clubs Al-Ahli, Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr on IG. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rmalive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rmalive</a> <a href="https://t.co/TUscNT7z6K">pic.twitter.com/TUscNT7z6K</a></p>— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) <a href="https://twitter.com/theMadridZone/status/1667576044491087873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Luka Modric's agent drops clear hint on future amid talk of joining Ronaldo and Benzema in Saudi Arabia - Bolavip US

Luka Modric's agent drops clear hint on future amid talk of joining Ronaldo and Benzema in Saudi Arabia






<p>Fireworks show and 60,000 spectators greeted <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/karim-benzema" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karim Benzema</a></strong> at <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/al-ittihad" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Al-Ittihad</a></strong>, where he immediately made an impact in his new role as a player. The reigning Ballon d’Or winner opted for a mega-deal in Saudi Arabia over <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/real-madrid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Real Madrid</a></strong>.</p>



<p>His former teammate <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Rona</a><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">l</a><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">do</a></strong> was the first superstar to make the move to the Middle East, but now the Frenchman has joined him. When the 35-year-old striker was finally introduced to the sold-out crowd, they erupted in applause.</p>



<p>Benzema was concealed in the shadows until his dramatic reveal. The moment the lights went down, everyone saw him decked up in Al-Ittihad colors and sporting a <strong>No. 9 jersey</strong> on his back.</p>



<h2>Why did Karim Benzema accept Al-Ittihad move?</h2>



<p>While Karim Benzema is projected to make up to <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/karim-benzemas-salary-at-al-ittihad-how-much-he-makes-per-hour-day-week-month-and-year-20230606-BUS-6714.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">€200 million each season</a></strong> in Jeddah, he insists that financial considerations were not the only factor in his choice. The France international explained his decision to play in Saudi Arabia to the club’s media outlet.</p>



<p><em><strong>“I am a Muslim and it is a Muslim country. </strong>I have always wanted to live there. I have already been to Saudi Arabia and I feel good there. The most important thing is that it is a Muslim country, dear and beautiful. When I spoke to my family about my move to Saudi Arabia, they were all very happy and here I am, for me, it’s where I want to be”, </em>he said.</p>


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<p>Benzema said Cristiano Ronaldo, his former colleague in Spain, was a major factor in his choice to leave Europe and move to the Middle East: <em>“It is also important that Cristiano Ronaldo is in Saudi Arabia because <strong>he is a very important player. </strong>He brings a lot to football in this country and that will raise his level of play even more. So it’s important to show that Saudi football can have a global impact because it’s not about playing in Saudi Arabia or not.”</em></p>


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It's not money: Karim Benzema explains key motivation for joining Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia - Bolavip US

It's not money: Karim Benzema explains key motivation for joining Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia






<p>In a shocking turn of events, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/karim-benzema">Karim Benzema</a></strong> left <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/real-madrid">Real Madrid</a></strong> for <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/al-ittihad">Al Ittihad</a></strong>. The Frenchman looked ready to sign a new deal in Spain, but the Saudi Arabian club made <strong>an offer he couldn’t refuse</strong>.</p>



<p>At 35, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner will become <strong>one of the highest-paid players on the planet</strong>, joining the league where Cristiano Ronaldo landed the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/Cristiano-Ronaldos-salary-It-takes-Messi-and-two-other-PSG-superstars-to-surpass-CR7s-wage-20230118-0011.html">biggest contract</a> in soccer history.</p>



<p>Needless to say, Benzema’s arrival means a huge boost to the <strong>Saudi Pro League</strong>. As a matter of fact, it looks like its <strong>paving the way for other world-renowned stars</strong> to follow in his footsteps.</p>



<h2>Report: N’Golo Kante close to joining Benzema at Al Ittihad</h2>



<p>According to transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano, Al Ittihad are on the verge of securing the signature of <strong>N’Golo Kante</strong>. Once again, they would seize the opportunity to sign a French star running out of contract.</p>



<p>Kante was expected to stay at <strong>Chelsea</strong> in the summer, but the Saudi club reportedly showed up with a <strong>two-year, €200 million contract</strong> (€100m per season) for the 2018 World Cup winner. Needless to say, that’s too good to turn down.</p>





<p>At 32, it might be the perfect opportunity for Kante to land one last lucrative contract before he hangs them up. Besides, he would reunite with Benzema, whom he knows from the national team.</p>


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Massive wages scandal rocks Saudi Arabia with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema's clubs implicated

Luka Modric's agent drops clear hint on future amid talk of joining Ronaldo and Benzema in Saudi Arabia

Luka Modric's agent drops clear hint on future amid talk of joining Ronaldo and Benzema in Saudi Arabia

It's not money: Karim Benzema explains key motivation for joining Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia

Former French teammate would join Karim Benzema at Al Ittihad with €100m salary – report

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