Why Al Ettifaq Are Keen To Offload Players To Sign Jesse Lingard
Al Ettifaq’s Strategic Move: Clearing Space for Jesse Lingard Amid Saudi League Rules
Al Ettifaq, led by Steven Gerrard in Saudi Arabia, is in the process of offloading players to make way for the potential signing of English football attacking midfielder Jesse Lingard.
The move is primarily motivated by the stringent rules of the Saudi Pro League, which limit the number of foreign players allowed in a matchday squad.
Jesse Ellis Lingard, known for his versatility as an attacking midfielder or winger, boasts an impressive career, including victories in the UEFA Europa League, FA Cup, FA Community Shield, and EFL Cup. Notably, he is one of just three players to have scored in the finals of the latter three competitions.
Navigating Saudi League Regulations
The Saudi Pro League’s regulations permit only eight foreign players to be included in a matchday squad.
Al Ettifaq currently has ten foreign players on their roster, necessitating strategic moves to meet the league’s guidelines.
To facilitate Jesse Lingard’s potential acquisition, the club is exploring avenues to part ways with at least one foreign player.
Candidates for departure
According to reliable sources, it is reported that Swedish international Robin Quaison and Brazilian winger Vitinho are two potential departures from Al Ettifaq.
These strategic adjustments are intended to create room for Lingard and ensure the club complies with the league’s rules regarding foreign players.
Steven Gerrard’s vision
Under the leadership of Steven Gerrard, who is responsible for signing foreign players, Al Ettifaq has been active in the transfer market.
Gerrard has already brought in notable names like Jordan Henderson, Georginio Wijnaldum, and Demarai Gray since taking over as manager in July.
Gerrard’s enthusiasm to have Jesse Lingard as a part of his squad is evident. The 30-year-old former Manchester United forward recently featured in a friendly match against Al Khaldiya, where he notched a goal.
Lingard’s journey took him to various destinations, including training with West Ham after a successful loan spell in 2021, but it now appears that a permanent move to Al Ettifaq is the most likely scenario.
Lingard’s Accomplished Career
Jesse Lingard, who scored 35 goals in 232 appearances for Manchester United, left Old Trafford in 2022.
He has been capped 32 times by the England national team and was a crucial part of Gareth Southgate’s squad during the 2018 World Cup, where they reached the semifinals in Russia.
As the potential signing of Jesse Lingard looms on the horizon, Al Ettifaq aims to navigate the intricate landscape of Saudi league regulations and enhance their competitive edge in the Saudi Pro League.
The move underscores the global appeal and influence of football in uniting players from diverse backgrounds and regions.
