Michael Emenalo Not Ruling Out Mo Salah Moving to Saudi Arabia in Future

Michael Emenalo Not Ruling Out Mo Salah Moving to Saudi Arabia in Future

Elijah Odetokun
updated at September 9, 2023 at 3:48 PM
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  • Saudi Arabia failed in their pursuit of Mo Salah in the summer transfer window
  • Al-Ittihad saw an offer of £150m rejected by Liverpool, who insisted the player isn't for sale
  • Pro League sporting director has insisted it is not over in their pursuit of the Egyptian

Saudi Pro League clubs won't give up on pursuing Egyptian winger Mohamed Salah even though Liverpool refused to sell last summer.

Saudi Arabia's money frenzy got to the doorsteps of Premier League club Liverpool, but they were unsuccessful in their attempt to pick one of the league's best players.

Salah formed a deadly trio with Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino, winning every trophy for Liverpool, including a first Premier League title in 30 years.

Mohamed Salah, Liverpool, Aston Villa, Anfield, Premier League.
Liverpool rejected a verbal offer of £150m for Mohamed Salah from Al-Ittihad. Photo by Matt McNulty.
Source: Getty Images

His strike partners are now plying their trades in Saudi Arabia. Firmino joined Al-Ahli after his contract expired, while Mane moved to Al-Nassr after just a year at Bayern Munich.

Emenalo insists Saudi door still open for Salah

As reported by The Athletic, the Reds rejected a verbal offer of £100m upfront, and £50m in add-ons from Al-Ittihad for Salah, and the club gave up as there was not much time left.

Saudi Pro League sporting director Michael Emenalo praised Salah as one of the best players in the world and insists the door is still open for him if he wants to come to Saudi Arabia, but things must be handled professionally.

“If it didn't happen, it's not because we no longer fancy the player, or because we have a problem with Liverpool,” the former Chelsea director told Sky Sports.
“It's because certain things that need to align didn't. Nobody is angry, we move on, but we close no doors and if the opportunity is there to do things and do it well, and it brings Mo Salah to the SPL, we'll be very grateful.”

Salah signed a new contract last summer with an improved salary of £350,000, which his agent claimed was a factor in choosing to stay. Many believe the Saudis are returning, and Liverpool better start finding a replacement.

Emenalo speaks on Ronaldo's Saudi League impact

Elsewhere, Sports Brief highlighted the former Chelsea technical director's commendation of Cristiano Ronaldo, recognising the Al-Nassr star as "more than just a footballer."

While Ronaldo's performances on the pitch consistently draw audiences to stadiums worldwide, his exemplary work ethic and lifestyle have additionally solidified his position as a role model for Saudi youth, as Michael Emenalo pointed out.

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Elijah Odetokun photo
Elijah Odetokun
Elijah Odetokun is Reuters-trained journalist with three years of experience having previously worked at Daily Times Nigeria, OmaSports and El Futbolero.
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