Is Saudi Pro League’s soccer success just a one-season wonder? Following Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival, it appears that some players are already prepared to leave, which is quite surprising. After Al Ettifaq lost Jordan Henderson to Ajax, Al Nassr is now on the list, with its premier defender Aymeric Laporte expected to leave. Nonetheless, the Saudi giants have set their eyes on another experienced player from Europe.
Al Nassr was the first team to show no boundaries in making its squad powerful. The club is now proving again by reportedly going for its captain’s former rival, Jose Maria Gimenez, to replace Laporte. Gimenez has been a long-term player for Atletico Madrid, which has been CR7’s well-favored club to play against whom he scored 25 goals.

Meanwhile, joining Atletico Madrid in 2013, Gimenez and Ronaldo have played against each other many times in La Liga, continental tournaments, and Internationals. Hence, the Portuguese captain would be well aware of the 29-year-old ability. The duo faced 13 times against each other, including two major World Cup games in 2018 and 2022. Despite competing with the prime Luis Suarez, Gimenez was selected as the captain for the 2022 World Cup, representing Uruguay.

However, despite being a crucial part of Diego Simeone’s squad, the Uruguayan has been regularly suffering injuries for many years. Thus, the player has been missing multiple games every season, becoming a major concern for the Spanish club.

Even recently, the player suffered a thigh injury in February but recovered in time and played in the UCL quarterfinal against Borussia Dortmund. Nevertheless, the defender is known for his powerful build and robust tackling abilities, keeping attackers at bay, and won a few trophies, including two La Ligas with the Colchoneros. But can he fill the treble-winner’s boots?

Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr to lose Aymeric Laporte

After following Cristiano Ronaldo to Al Nassr, reports suggest that Aymeric Laporte wants to head to Spain. After dissatisfaction with the treatment in the League, the player recently expressed a high possibility of moving back. Although his $27 million contract runs till 2026, possibilities point out that the Knights of Najd have to adjust their backline a bit. The former Manchester City star played a decent role for Al Nassr, keeping them #2 in the Saudi League.

Moreover, Al Nassr faced a significant setback to their defense this season with their main goalkeeper, David Ospina’s injury. However, despite Ospina’s return, the departure of Aymeric Laporte may need a strategic change. And whether Gimenez will replace Laporte in Riyadh, only time will reveal.

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