In the world of football, where big offers from Saudi Arabian clubs often beckon, there are players who choose loyalty over riches. This article explores the stories of footballers who turned down lucrative Saudi offers and remained committed to their teams. Additionally, we'll highlight some of the standout moments from the Euro 2024 qualifiers.
Loyalty in Football: Players Who Turned Down Saudi Offers to Stay With Their Clubs:
Son Heung-Min (Tottenham Hotspur):
With Harry Kane's departure, Son Heung-Min became a pivotal figure at Tottenham. Despite a jaw-dropping £25 million per year contract offer from Al Ittihad, a Saudi Arabian Club, Son Stayed true of Spurs. He turned down the offer, proving his commitment to the club and its passionate fan base.
Luka Modrić (Real Madrid):
As speculations swirled about Luka Modrić's future, Al Hilal attempted to lure the midfield maestro with a staggering £170 million offer for three years in the Saudi Pro League. Surprisingly, the Croatian superstar declined, choosing to extend his stay at Real Madrid, where he hopes to continue winning trophies.
Moussa Diaby (Aston Villa):
Moussa Diaby, a 24-year-old French winger, had numerous suitors after a fantastic season with Bayer Leverkusen. Despite Al-Nassr's efforts to match Aston Villa's offer and the chance to team up with Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia, Diaby opted for a move to the Premier League, highlighting his ambition and desire for new challenges.
Rodrigo De Paul (Atletico Madrid):
After winning the 2022 World Cup, Rodri faced criticism from Atletico Madrid fans. However, he chose to stay with the club and rejected Al Ahli's £35 million offer to play in the Saudi League. Rodrigo De Paul remains commited to Atletico Madrid's Champions League aspirations and aims to regain the confidence of the fans.
Raphael Varane (Manchester United):
Raphael Varane's decision to join Manchester United was surprising to some, given his exceptional skills and potential. Despite interest from Al Ittihad and the allure of joining fellow countrymen Karim Benzema and N'golo Kanté in the Saudi League, Varane opted to continue his journey with Manchester United, aiming to secure more trophies.
Robert Lewandowski (FC Barcelona):
Saudi Arabia made multiple attempts to sign the prolific Polish striker Robert Lewandowski in the summer transfer window, but each effort was met with a resounding "No". Lewandowski remains loyal to FC Barcelona, where he continues to be a goal-scoring sensation.
Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City):
In an additional update, Kevin De Bruyne has reaffirmed his commitment to Manchester City. Despite tempting offers from Saudi Arabia, the Belgian midfielder is determined to finish his career at the club. His loyalty shines through as he aims to contribute to Manchester City's ongoing success.
Euro Qualifiers 2024: Exciting Highlights:
Group A: Spain 6-0 Cyprus:
In a commanding performance, Spain secured a resounding 6-0 victory over Cyprus at Los Carmenes Stadium. Ferran Torres, Pablo Gavi, Mikel Merino, Joselu and Alex Baena all contributed to the goal fest. Sapin now stands second in the group with 9 points, while Cyprus lags behind with 0 points.
Group A: Norway 2-1 Georgia:
In group A, Norway secured a 2-1 win over Georgia at Ullevaal Stadium. Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard contributed goals for Norway, while Budu Zivzivadze scored for Georgia. Norway occupies third place with 7 points, while Georgia sits fourth with 4 points.
Group C: North Macedonia 2-0 Malta:
In Group C, North Macedonia secured a vital 2-0 win over Malta at Ta' Qali National Stadium. Elif Elmas and Jovan Manev provided the goals, propelling North Macedonia to fourth place with 7 points, while Malta remains at the bottom with 0 points.
Group C: Italy 2-1 Ukraine:
Italy secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ukraine at San Siro. David Frattesi's brace for Italy and Andriy Yarmolenko's goal for Ukraine made for a thrilling contest. Italy now stands second in the group with 7 points, while Ukraine is third with 7 points as well.
Group F: Belgium 5-0 Estonia:
Belgium asserted their authority in Group F with a convincing 5-0 win over Estonia at King Baudouin Stadium. Jan Vertonghen and Romelu Lukaku, with a brace, led the charge, while Leandro Trossard and Charles De Ketelaere also got on the scoresheet. Belgium now tops the group with 13 points, leaving Estonia at the bottom with 1 points.
Group F: Austria 3-1 Sweden:
Austria registered a 3-1 victory over Sweden at Friedns Arena in Group F. Marko Artaunović's double and Michael Gregoritsch's goal sealed the win, propelling Austria to second place with 13 points, while Sweden is third with 6 points.
Group I: Switzerland 3-0 Andorra:
Switzerland showcased their dominance in Group I with a comfortable 3-0 win over Andorra at Tourbillon Stadium. Cedric Itten, Granit Xhaka, and Xherdan Shaqiri all found the back of the net. Switzerland leads the group with an impressive 14 points, while Andorra trails with 2 points.
Group I: Israel 1-0 Belarus:
In Group I, Israel secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Belarus at Bloomfield Stadium. Gabi Kanichowky's goal was the decider, lifting Israel to third place with 11 points, while Belarus remains in fourth place with 4 points.
Group I: Romania 2-0 Kosovo:
Romania clinchted a 2-à win over Kosovo at National Arena. Goals from Nicolae Stanciu and Valentin Mihaila propelled Romania to second place with 12 points, while Kosovo sits fifth with 4 points.