Is the departure of young football players towards Saudi Arabia a cause for concern for the French Football Federation?
In a surprising turn of events, three players from the French Espoirs team - Nathan Zeze, Simon Bouabre, and Valentin Atangana - have made the move to the Saudi Arabian Pro League. This development, which has raised questions about the future of French football, is part of a growing trend of French talents showing interest in the emerging Saudi Championship.
Adam el-Fayed, an intermediary based in France, has played a significant role in convincing these players to make the leap. The move has been facilitated by a two-year partnership between the French Football Federation (FFF) and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation.
The FFF's view is that the Saudi Pro League is an emerging championship where the level will gradually rise. They are open to the possibility of young talents playing in the league, despite concerns about the championship not yet being well-referenced. The FFF's stance is that they will not exclude players who play in the Saudi Championship.
Gerald Baticle, coach of the French Espoirs team, is focused on his players having playing time and progressing. He has expressed a need to adapt to the evolution of world football and new emerging championships. Baticle's primary concern is ensuring his players have playing time, progress, and reach the appropriate level before selecting them for the national team.
Nathan Zeze, one of the players making the move, is set to earn a substantial 3M€ net annually in the first year in the Saudi Championship. The performances of Zeze, Bouabré, and Atangana will be closely watched by the FFF, as they assess the impact of this trend on French football.
The FFF is willing to bear the additional costs associated with Paris-Riyad round trips and has even offered to reimburse the equivalent of a classic ticket for these trips. This decision reflects the FFF's commitment to supporting their players, regardless of where they choose to play.
Christophe Galtier and Sabri Lamouchi, French technicians, are at the helm of certain teams in the Saudi Championship. Their presence could further boost the profile of the league and attract more French talents.
While some worry about the "exodus" of French players to the Saudi Championship, the FFF is optimistic about the potential benefits this trend could bring. They are planning a review of the situation in the coming months to assess the impact on French football and make informed decisions about the future.
Despite the ongoing interest in French-speaking or French-background players in the Saudi Arabian Pro League, no specific French talents are currently confirmed to join in the upcoming months based on available transfer data. However, the continued success of players like Vincent Sierro, who is active in the league, indicates a continued interest in French players.
In conclusion, the move of French Espoirs stars to the Saudi Arabian Pro League marks a significant shift in the landscape of French football. The FFF, while cautious, is open to this trend and is committed to supporting their players, regardless of where they choose to play. A review of the situation will be conducted in the coming months to assess the impact on French football and make informed decisions about the future.
