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Former Liverpool and Real Madrid stars seeking shock exit from Saudi Pro League just after six months

Cristiano Ronaldo's multi-millionaire move to Saudi Arabia's Al-Nassr prompted several top European stars to follow the same path. Many top stars ventured into a new journey with hopes of more luxury and more money.

However, just six months later, the pomp and color are fading for some stars. Cristiano Ronaldo has been tearing things up for Al-Nassr so have Sadio Mane and Alexander Mitrovic after settling in the new environment.

Saudi


However, the same can't be said of three other players Jordan Henderson, Roberto Firmino, and Karim Benzema.

All of them have different grounds of struggle. It is reported that some of them are not satisfied with the conditions in Saudi Arabia while some of them are not happy with the restrictions imposed on their women.

It is also understood that the quality of the fields, games, and the low attendance of matches have discouraged them.

The bottom line is they are reportedly seeking a move back to Europe, barely six months after moving to the Middle East.

Jordan Henderson

The Liverpool captain moved to former team-mate Steven Gerrard's Al-Ettifaq in the summer with a lucrative deal of €700,000 weekly. He started well under Steven Gerrard, bagging four assists in his first six games.

However, for the last two months, his team has been winless and the player is fed up with life. He is seeking an exit reportedly as early as January. Chelsea have been named as a shock club to get a deal.

Roberto Firmino

Despite an explosive hat-trick debut, the Brazilian striker has struggled to maintain his form. Since then he has gone goalless in his last 16 appearances.

With Firmino's struggles becoming more apparent, reports are emerging of interest from clubs in England, with Fulham showing a keen eye on the Brazilian forward.

Additionally, Turkish clubs are reportedly in the mix, presenting the possibility of a January exit for the former Liverpool talisman.

Karim Benzema

As the only other Ballon d'Or winner alongside Ronaldo, the seasoned striker was anticipated to light up the league.

However, despite a decent return of nine goals and five assists, Benzema finds himself grappling with challenges. His efforts have failed to elevate his side Al-Ittihad from a disappointing seventh place in the league table.

The struggles of the team have added weight to the burden on Benzema's shoulders, prompting fans to dub him 'Ben Hazima' or 'son of defeat' in a poignant commentary on the team's performance.

Reports suggest that the 36-year-old striker is not content with his current situation and is keen on a return either in the upcoming January transfer window or in the summer.
Story first published: Thursday, January 11, 2024, 21:44 [IST]
Other articles published on Jan 11, 2024
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