“I can’t play under the new Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca” “I want to leave, I don’t want to be in his project” – Chelsea star has instructed Todd Boehly that he wants to Join Saudi Clu
Enzo Maresca’s potential move to Saudi Arabia has become a topic of discussion, with the player expressing his desire to leave Chelsea. As the Blues prepare for a new season under Mauricio Pochettino’s leadership, Maresca’s future at Stamford Bridge hangs in the balance amidst talks of incoming transfers and the need to offload surplus players from the squad.
The club faces the task of finding suitors for players who spent last season on loan and are now surplus to requirements. Among them is Romelu Lukaku, who spent consecutive seasons on loan in Italy. Chelsea reportedly seeks a fee of approximately £38m to finalize Lukaku’s departure, indicating a willingness to part ways with the Belgian striker.
Lukaku’s potential move to Saudi Arabia has resurfaced as a possibility, with the player showing a greater inclination towards the idea compared to previous discussions. In an interview with HLN, Lukaku hinted at a change in perspective, mentioning conversations with acquaintances familiar with life in Saudi Arabia. He acknowledged the appeal of the region, citing familiarity with the area and expressing optimism about the growing level of football and infrastructure there.
The allure of Saudi Arabia as a footballing destination extends beyond financial incentives, as evidenced by the increasing presence of former Chelsea players in the league. N’Golo Kanté, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Edouard Mendy are among those who have made the move, signaling a trend that Lukaku could potentially join.
Despite potential concerns about infrastructure and facilities, Lukaku’s sentiments reflect a broader recognition among European clubs of Saudi Arabia’s emerging stature in various sporting domains, including football, combat sports, and Formula 1. This acknowledgment suggests a shifting landscape in the global sports arena, with Saudi Arabia positioning itself as an attractive destination for top-tier athletes.
In the context of Chelsea’s evolving squad dynamics and the changing footballing landscape, Lukaku’s potential move to Saudi Arabia represents a significant development, underscoring the growing influence of the region in the sport. As discussions surrounding player transfers continue, the outcome of Lukaku’s decision could have implications for both Chelsea and the broader footballing community.