Clubs’ interest not aligned with national interest

People always wondering why Saudi players don’t ever play in European league. Two Saudi players, Fahad Al Ghasian and Sami Jaber are the only Saudi players who ever got to play abroad. A recent article in Arriyadiyyah discussed this issue and had some convincing points.

Saudi Arabia took down the barrier to playing abroad professionally 15 years ago. Since then only two players achieved to go and test themselves. With World Cup appearances since 1994, people expect alot of players to play abroad. Today there are no players in international arena. One thing people don’t know is that, Saudi players are constantly recieiving offers but none go through. Ahmed Al-Sawlieh, Nawaf Al Temyat, Yasser Al Qahtani and Hamad Al Montashiri were the last few players that were offered to play abroad. Ahmed Al Sewalih’s professional career would have gone to a superb start in Austria, but due to Al-Hilal’s need for him, he missed the biggest opportunity.

The article’s point was that there are obstacles within Saudi Arabia that deter professional career. The obstacles are the clubs and the players’ mentallity. In Saudi, clubs’ interest are not aligned with national interest. They care more of clubs’ success rather than the career of the players. Ahmed Al Selaih was a clear example of conflicting interest. Same with Sami’s European experience, which was shortened when Al-Hilal did not want to extend his contract with Wolverhampton Wanderers. In addition, players themselves don’t want to play abroad. The professional career in europe are not monetarily attractive and don’t provide alot of incentives to players. They are more comfortable playing in Saudi Arabia league, which they believe is the top in Asia.

Only with change in mind set, can Saudi players leave their home and break the clubs restrains and play professionaly among world class players.