Sulley Muntari Considering a Return to Europe Amid Payment Disputes at Al-Ittihad
Sulley Muntari, the experienced Ghanaian midfielder, may be set for a return to European football after a turbulent spell in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ittihad. Since leaving Europe for the Gulf region, Muntari has faced a challenging environment, with reports indicating that he and several teammates have gone unpaid for several months. This financial uncertainty has left the veteran midfielder increasingly frustrated and seriously contemplating a move away from the Saudi club.
Muntari, well-known for his combative style and ability to dominate the midfield, joined Al-Ittihad after a lengthy and successful career in European football. Having played in top leagues in Italy, England, and Spain, the Ghanaian international brought a wealth of experience to the Saudi side. However, despite his professional pedigree, the lack of timely wages and operational difficulties at Al-Ittihad appear to have disrupted his stay.
The midfielder’s dissatisfaction is understandable, as professional players rely on stable contracts and timely remuneration to maintain both financial security and focus on the pitch. With tensions rising due to the months-long payment delays, Muntari has publicly expressed his frustration, signaling that he may exercise his right to terminate his contract or push for a transfer elsewhere. The situation has reached a critical point, coinciding with the final week of the winter transfer window, which could facilitate a swift move back to Europe.
European clubs may view Muntari’s availability as a strategic opportunity. Despite being in the later stages of his career, the midfielder possesses qualities that can still make a significant impact, particularly for clubs seeking experience and leadership in the middle of the park. His potential arrival would not only strengthen the squad but also bring a wealth of international experience from both European leagues and major tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations.
For Muntari, returning to Europe would represent both a professional and personal reset. The competitive environment of European leagues would allow him to maintain his sharpness and demonstrate his enduring capabilities at a high level. Furthermore, the move could provide stability that has been lacking during his tenure in Saudi Arabia, including reliable contracts, structured training environments, and more consistent competitive fixtures.
The coming days are expected to be decisive. With just one week left in the winter transfer window, negotiations between Muntari, his representatives, and potential European suitors will likely accelerate. Clubs monitoring the situation may move quickly to secure his services, taking advantage of the midfielder’s readiness to leave the Gulf. Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad may attempt to resolve the dispute, but given the reported duration of unpaid wages, a swift departure seems increasingly likely.
Sulley Muntari’s potential return to European football underscores the challenges some players face when moving to leagues outside of Europe, including financial uncertainty and administrative difficulties. For the Ghanaian international, a timely transfer could reignite his career and allow him to contribute his experience, skill, and leadership to a European club in need of a seasoned midfielder. The next few days will be crucial in determining whether Muntari’s European comeback becomes a reality.
