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The Eternal Boss: Salah Isn’t Saudi League Material (Yet)

10 December 2025

The Eternal Boss: Salah Isn’t Saudi League Material (Yet)
Debate rages over Salah’s fit for Saudi football as rumors swirl from Riyadh.

Rising Rumor or Reality?

Ben Harbourg, the president of The Eternity Club, sparked a debate by saying Mohamed Salah, the Liverpool star, isn’t Saudi League material, citing his age and form. The rumor mill has linked Salah with a winter move amid tensions with Liverpool's Dutch coach Arne Slot.

The chatter around Salah continues as reports surface about a potential Saudi move during the upcoming winter window, amid the ongoing dispute with Arne Slot, Liverpool's manager.

What He Said and What It Could Mean

During a global football summit in Riyadh, Harbourg stated that there is a narrative claiming the Saudi League once invited Salah but was met with a refusal.

He added that rejecting players outright may backfire, and there could be public concern about Salah joining the league this time around.

He noted Salah is 33 years old, has earned a hefty salary at Liverpool, and his form has significantly dipped since leaving the club.

While some admire Salah, Harbourg suggested he does not fit the league and, if asked to choose between Salah and Vinícius Júnior, would opt for Vinícius.

He argued that Vinícius should come here to flourish, and he believes this setting might be better suited for someone like him.

He concluded that the league should target younger players—around 25—rather than veterans like Salah, whose career might be winding down.

Punchline: If age is the hurdle, maybe the transfer window should issue a veteran’s discount and a map to Vinícius' house. Punchline 2: In football and stand-up alike, sometimes the brightest stars don’t shine in Riyadh—until someone buys a bigger spotlight.

Author

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Ben Harbourg say about Salah?

He claimed Salah isn’t Saudi Pro League material due to age (33) and current form.

Why is Salah linked with the Saudi league?

Rumors emerged amid a potential winter transfer and ongoing tension with Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot.

Who did Harbourg prefer instead of Salah?

Vinícius Júnior, arguing he would fit the league better and thrive in a new environment.

What age does Harbourg say Salah is at?

33 years old.