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via Imago

Saudi Pro League is experiencing many twists and turns. Cristiano Ronaldo led Al Nassr who initiated the mass exodus of European superstars is in a state of losing Sadio Mane per reports. Mane may not have had the best season, but he contributed significantly enough with 19 goals. Hence, this could worry Al Nassr, as the club could lose an experienced attacker.

With one player heading back to Europe, Sadio Mane could be next in the line from the Saudi League. According to an X (previously Twitter) page that covers Saudi soccer news, La Liga club Girona expressed high interest in the Senegalese player. In addition, even Mane, who considered moving to Europe, may join them on their next journey. Earlier, the player agreed to a stay of four years with a $43.85 million deal at Al Nassr. But with three more years left in the contract, reports suggest that money involved in obtaining him could be an issue for the Catalan club.

 

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Meanwhile, Girona shook La Liga this season by ending up third on the table for the first time in its 93-year history. They will play in the UEFA Champions League in the upcoming season for the first time, and the club is in pursuit of upgrading the squad. Given his proven track record, acquiring this former Liverpool star with a Premier League and Champions League title to his name would be a major coup for the Spanish club.

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However, this could prove a major setback for Cristiano Ronaldo who has jelled along well with the winger. They combined in six goals with Mane assisting CR7 four times in his 33 goals in the league. Nevertheless, Al Nassr is still without a title this season leaving fans discontent about Mane’s performance. In addition, the team has received a blow for next season as another star is expected to leave.

Defensive blow to Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr apart from Sadio Mane

A hard-fought season is about to culminate for Al Nassr with the King Cup final on May 31st. The club has only a few things to cheer this season, including Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal fest. But it could get a bit more difficult next season as defender Aymeric Laporte is also expected to leave the club on a loan to Athletic Bilbao. The defender was dissatisfied with the hospitality in the Gulf and wanted to return to Europe.

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Moreover, the Spaniard won’t feature in the King Cup final after being handed a two-match suspension. Cameras caught Laporte punching an opponent in the game against Al Riyadh to end a bittersweet 2023-24 period.

On the other hand, Al Nassr’s defense has been under a bit of pressure conceding a few more than what they would have liked. And with Aleksandar Mitrović back in the side, Al Hilal’s attack could pounce on the absence of a player like Laporte in the King Cup. The match gives the Knights of Najd a chance to recover a title for the season. But with their recent form, it would be interesting to see if the club in yellow can pull the King Cup off.