FORMER MANCHESTER CITY defender Aymeric Laporte has revealed dissatisfaction with aspects of life in Saudi Arabia and claimed a number of players are unhappy.
Laporte became one of the Saudi Pro League’s numerous statement signings last summer when he left the Champions League winners to join Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr in a lucrative deal.
This week, however, England midfielder Jordan Henderson quit Al-Ettifaq after less than six months to return to Europe with Ajax while Karim Benzema and Roberto Firmino are reportedly also seeking exits.
Laporte, 29, says he is not at that stage yet but has had difficulties adjusting to his new surroundings.
The Spain international told AS: “It is a big change compared to Europe, but in the end it is all about adaptation.
“They have not made it easy for us. In fact, there are many players that are discontented.
“But we are working on it every day, to see if it can improve a little. This is something new for them also, to have European players that have had long careers.
“Maybe they are not used to this and have to adapt a little more in terms of seriousness.”
Despite the huge wages being paid to players, Laporte feels they are not being treated as well as they are used to at big European clubs.
He said: “Yes they look after us, but not enough for my liking. In Europe they pay you a good salary but they look after you more.
“I am not looking (to leave). I have not thought about it but if I am upset in the near future, you have to ask yourself questions. I have not arrived at that moment but I could face it in future if that dynamic continues.”
Laporte added that it is not only the professional life he has found difficult, but also general day-to-day living.
He said: “Being honest, many of us have not only come here for the football.
“Many of us are happy with that but I am looking for something beyond the economic side. In terms of quality of life, I hoped for something different.”
Interesting read. However you’d imagine players (as humans) would do their research on these things before committing. Probably blinded by the money at first but just shows it’s not everything.
@Barry Lehane: professional footballers live in a bubble, I’m not sure they would do too much research
The Saudi league is turning out to be just like the China League.
Fair play to these footballers for getting to the top of their profession. But it’s hard to listen to a 29 year old professional footballer giving out about his quietly of life when he’s getting well paid. You went there mate. Cry me a fxxking river.
@David Staed: quality
@David Staed: correct
Wonder what he was expecting? Doesn’t strike me as the fizziest drink in the fridge.
So sorry to hear these guys are unhappy crying all the way to the bank
Saudi project will fail.
If you’re only means of attracting players is throwing big money at them you had better make sure you’re actually good for it.
Refusing to honour contracts and stiffing players won’t do your reputation any favours! And what can players do? Sue them? In a Saudi Court?
Back to the civilised democratic world lads.
@Dan P: Good post Dan.