A deep-pocketed Saudi club has signed another European star.
“Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli have signed Chelsea’s Edouard Mendy, 31,” European soccer expert Fabrizio Romano wrote on social media on Sunday (April 27). On the 28th, he posted a video of Mendy’s arrival in Saudi Arabia.
He’s a former top European goalkeeper. Mendy was a revelation in Chelsea’s 2020-21 UEFA Champions League (UCL) title run, pulling off a number of stunning saves. He also won the 2022 FIFA Club World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations as the first-choice goalkeeper.
Mendy, a former first-choice goalkeeper, recently lost his place at Chelsea. His up-and-down performances caused him to lose the trust of the club. His time on the bench has increased in favor of Kepa Arrizabalaga (28). He played just 12 games in the 2022-23 season.
Tottenham Hotspur, looking for a goalkeeping replacement, targeted Mendy. According to The Sun, Spurs have Mendy on their list of potential replacements for the departure of Hugo Lloris, 36. Tottenham captain and veteran gatekeeper Yoris has also been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. Yoris has already told his country’s media that it’s time for a “new challenge”.
However, the tide has turned as Saudi clubs, who have been scooping up European players in recent years, have entered the fray. Starting with Cristiano Ronaldo (37), European superstars such as Karim Benzema (35), N’Golo Kante (31), and Nabil Neves (26) are heading to the kingdom. With their deep pockets, Saudi clubs are promising astronomical salaries. Ronaldo and Benzema are reportedly earning €200 million a year, according to multiple media reports.
Mendy, who is still in his prime, has also received offers from Saudi clubs, with an official announcement expected soon. “Mendy is heading to Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli,” Romano reported, “with a contract that runs until June 2026.” 메이저사이트