UEFA President confirms that Saudi Clubs will ‘NEVER’ play in the Champions League or Europa League

UEFA Chief confirms that he will not entertain Saudi Arabian clubs in either of the competitions.

UEFA President confirms that Saudi Clubs will ‘NEVER’ play in the Champions League or Europa League

UEFA President Alexander Ceferin (Source: UEFA)

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has firmly addressed two significant issues in the football world. The rise of the Saudi Pro League and the forthcoming season of the Champions League. In a recent interview with L’Equipe, Ceferin drew parallels between Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning football initiative. He compared it with the previous rise of the Chinese league, which had once attracted renowned football stars.

Ceferin highlighted that hefty financial incentives marked the Chinese experiment for veteran players. He addressed how it ultimately failed to establish a footballing powerhouse. He emphasized that financial resources alone cannot create a footballing dynasty. Instead, the development of talent and coaching expertise leads to genuine champions. European soil remains the preferred destination for players seeking to solidify their legacies.

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Furthermore, Čeferin pointed out that the most talented players in their prime, like Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, do not aspire to play in Saudi Arabia.Čeferin firmly rejected the notion of Saudi Arabia as a competitor to UEFA’s tournaments. He clarified that European clubs exclusively have the privilege of participating in UEFA competitions, clarifying reports suggesting Saudi Arabian clubs could ‘Never play in the Champions League or any other European Competition.’

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In addition, Čeferin ruled out the possibility of a Champions League final taking place outside European borders. He underscored that only European federations, not clubs, have the authority to bid for hosting such finals, and any alteration to UEFA’s long-standing rules is not under consideration. UEFA remains committed to maintaining the integrity and tradition of its competitions, with no room for external entities.

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Al Ittihad is targeting Liverpool forward to become Saudi’s highest-paid player

Mohammed Salah
Mohammed Salah. (Source: Fabrizio Romano)


Al-Ittihad aims to bid £150 million for Mohamed Salah, sparking talks of his move to Saudi Pro League. Despite their considerable interest, they have yet to receive any indications of willingness from Liverpool to negotiate a deal.

Al-Ittihad’s active transfer window saw them sign Karim Benzema and Kanté, yet their pursuit of Salah is challenged. Liverpool firmly asserts Salah’s unavailability for sale due to his crucial role. Al-Ittihad aims to acquire Salah as the top-paid Arab player, surpassing Ronaldo.

Klopp’s philosophy emphasizes addressing challenges as they arise. No concrete offer or discussions would prompt Liverpool to consider parting ways with the prolific forward. While Salah’s future remains a topic of interest, Liverpool’s commitment to retaining their star player is evident, as they would prefer to retain their star winger.

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