Saudi Arabia’s sports minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, has hailed Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah as the ideal player for the Saudi Pro League (SPL), describing him as someone who “embodies everything we want” in the competition.
The minister, who is a known admirer of the Egyptian star, praised Salah’s stature in the Arab and Muslim world and said he would be a perfect ambassador for the growing Saudi league.
Salah, who has repeatedly been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, put an end to speculation earlier this month by signing a new two-year contract with Liverpool.
“I mean, he’s a superstar,” Al-Faisal told ESPN. “He’s an Arab and Muslim icon. He embodies the identity of the type of player who can play in the Saudi league.
“It was his decision to renew with Liverpool, but to associate his name with Saudi Arabia… I think from day one they’ve linked him with Saudi Arabia. There were no discussions, but that’s fine.”
Despite persistent rumours over a Saudi move for Salah, Al-Faisal dismissed claims that the government ever made contact with the player’s camp.
“Now, every time a player renews or signs a contract, the media says he is coming to Saudi Arabia, and 90% of the time that is not true. I think we have a clear strategy.”
Al-Faisal also pointed to a strategic shift in SPL recruitment, noting a new focus on younger talents rather than ageing stars.
Recent arrivals such as Colombian striker Jhon Duran, 21, at Al Nassr and French winger Moussa Diaby, 25, at Al Ittihad, reflect that change.
“If you look at the last players we have signed, or that clubs have signed, they are mostly young players who want to contribute to the development of the league,” Al-Faisal said.
