Spanish Papers Speculate That Vinicius Jr.’s Saudi Pro League Story Is Far From Over Even After Ballon d’Or Snub
After Manchester City’s Rodri claimed the Ballon d’Or, there have been speculations on Vinicius Jr.’s future. With the Saudi Pro League having previously earth-shattering terms to lure him, the expectation is that the approaches will only intensify.
The Saudi Pro League revolution started with Cristiano Ronaldo, a global superstar in his own right, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, and still able to put in great performances at the highest level. However, Cristiano is far from his prime despite the impressive numbers he manages to put up each season. Another marquee signing, Neymar, is in his mid-thirties and has had the toll of injuries throughout his career, making it challenging to recover fast and play for his club.
Such instances led the Saudi Pro League, under the stewardship of director of football Michael Emenalo, to change strategy and target players approaching or already in their prime. This approach has paid dividends, with the best example being Al Ittihad’s Moussa Diaby. The 25-year-old arrived in the summer from Aston Villa and has hit the ground running, leading the assist charts with ten assists in ten appearances this season.
Vinicius Jr. offers the Saudi Pro League a chance to make an even bigger statement on their status in global football. A deal would be a challenge given that the Brazilian is reportedly happy at the Spanish capital and has two and a half years remaining on his contract. However, the dynamics that led him to finish 2nd in the Ballon d’Or race may cause him to reconsider his desire to remain in Europe.
With Neymar’s contract at Al Hilal expected to be terminated, Vinicius Jr. would be an ideal replacement. Should the player offer any hints of being open to the move, the Saudi Pro League will go all out to lure him to the Middle East.
