Although Lionel Messi chose to turn down an offer from the Etihad to embark on a new career in professional soccer in the United States, the blueprint for the development of Saudi soccer remains steadfast. Just this Friday (9), famed French striker Benzema was unveiled with the Ballon d'Or trophy to a rapturous crowd of 60,000 fans. Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund (PIF) recently announced that it would acquire controlling stakes in four top clubs, with the intention of using huge sums of money to attract global soccer superstars to join the clubs, and even Crowe has expressed confidence that there will be many stars choosing to play competitively in Saudi Arabia.
Speaking at a press conference in front of a full house of 60,000 fans at the Etihad's home ground, Benzema said, "I'm eager to live in a Muslim country, Saudi Arabia gives me a great feeling and this will be a whole new chapter in my soccer career. I hope to lead the team forward and most importantly win the league title." The signing of Benzema also brings the potential addition of another French international to the Etihad, Nicolas Bardel.
Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund recently announced that it will acquire 75% of the shares of four top clubs - Ainas, Ittihad, Hilal and Al-Ali - respectively, which will give these clubs more room for investment. According to the Saudi media, international stars such as Aubameyang, Malles, Zodi Aiba, Busquets, Shadio Vinny, Shaji Oramos and Modi Calendar have become the acquisition targets of the Saudi clubs.
