“We don't print money.” Al Hilal CEO complains about players' inflated financial demands
Liam Garcia
Dailysports's expert
Saudi Arabia has recently become a hotspot where European and other clubs have cashed in on their players. Naturally, some footballers haven’t minded pocketing hefty paychecks themselves, but it seems the Middle Eastern nation is starting to wise up.
Details: Esteve Calzada, CEO of Saudi club Al Hilal, revealed that the team's ambition was to bring in top-tier reinforcements with big-name signings ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup. However, negotiations hit a wall as these stars demanded exorbitant wages, forcing the Riyadh side to abandon several transfer pursuits.
Quote: “We held numerous talks and, in some cases, came very close to sealing a deal. But the financial expectations were excessive—both from the players and their agents. They seem to think we can meet any figure. But we don't print money. We have financial limitations. We have a budget, and we have to stick to it,” Calzada told Reuters.
Reminder: Previously, Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, who spent last season at Galatasaray, turned down a €45 million per year offer from Al Hilal.
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