Sadio Mane set to part ways with Cristiano Ronaldo as new Saudi club eyes Senegalese forward

Sadio Mane set to part ways with Cristiano Ronaldo as new Saudi club eyes Senegalese forward

Festus Chuma 13:00 - 15.05.2024

The 2022 CAF Men's Player of the Year is now targeted for a transfer by another ambitious Saudi Pro League club.

Just a year after joining Al Nassr alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane finds himself the subject of intense transfer speculation once again. 

The Senegalese star, who revitalized his career in the Saudi Pro League after a tough stint at Bayern Munich, is now reportedly being targeted by newly promoted Al Qadsiah.

Mane, who moved to Al Nassr at the start of the season, quickly found his footing, amassing 19 goals and 11 assists. 

His performance has not only helped his team but also reignited his reputation as one of football's premier forwards.

According to Al-Awsat, it is his standout talent that has made him a prime target for Al Qadsiah, a club with high ambitions following their promotion.

Owned by Saudi Aramco, Al Qadsiah has publicly committed to building a competitive squad capable of challenging in the Saudi Pro League. 

Mane, with his proven track record and recent accolade as the 2022 CAF Men's Player of the Year, fits perfectly into Al Qadsiah’s vision. 

The club’s management believes his experience and skill set align with the ambitious project they are undertaking in Khobar.

Despite a contract with Al Nassr that runs until June 2026, the allure of a new challenge and possibly a central role in another team might tempt Mane. 

His current club, however, is expected to put up a fight to keep their star forward. Mane has become a fan favorite and a pivotal part of the team's strategy, particularly evident in his 30 goals from just 42 appearances.

The situation at Al Nassr has been further complicated following a disappointing defeat to rivals Al Hilal, which could influence Mane’s thoughts about his future with the club. 

While Al Nassr has enjoyed having a player of Mane's caliber, the dynamics of football transfers in Saudi Arabia suggest that a lucrative offer could sway their resolve.

Al Qadsiah's interest in Mane is reminiscent of other recent high-profile moves in the Saudi Pro League.

 For instance, Al Ahli, after their promotion, embarked on a significant recruitment drive under the stewardship of South African coach Pitso Mosimane, bringing in stars like Roberto Firmino and Allan Saint-Maximin.

This trend of investing heavily in talent follows the league's growing stature and the financial backing from powerful entities like the Public Investment Fund.

Securing Mane would be a statement signing for Al Qadsiah and could potentially elevate the club’s status both on and off the pitch.

 As the transfer saga unfolds, all eyes will be on Mane's next move—whether he chooses to stay and continue his successful partnership with Ronaldo at Al Nassr or embrace a new challenge with Al Qadsiah.

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