Chelsea sold three of their players to the Saudi Pro League in the summer of 2023, with N’Golo Kane, Eduoard Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly swapping the Premier League for Saudi Arabia.
Kouliably emphasizes that it is the former Chelsea the trio discussed their moves with each other during this period, the central defender decided to join Al Hilal, Mendy signed for Al Ahli and Kante moved to Al Ittihad.
But while Koulibaly suggests the outside perception is that they are there simply to collect a lucrative salary and relax while enjoying football, the Senegal international insists this is far from the truth.
The Chelsea trio have discussed moving to Saudi Arabia together in 2023
“We were talking to each other then,” says Koulibaly FFT. “We were among the first players to arrive here after the match Krystian Ronaldoand we didn’t know where we were going.
“Everyone was a little afraid to come here. But today we are really happy to be here. Saudis welcome you very much, they invite you to eat at their place, even if they don’t know you. my religion too [Koulibaly is a Muslim]it was a good choice for me and my family.
“We are part of a project to develop Saudi football, and its level is constantly increasing. Last season winning my first league title was amazing – I tried Naples but he missed three or four times. Everyone thought we only came to Saudi Arabia for a holiday, but instead we are here to work for the club. There is pressure at Al Hilal because they are used to winning.
Al Hilal, winner of the 2021 Asian Champions League, will play in next year’s 32-team squad Club World Championship. After winning the Saudi Pro League last season and playing with the likes of NeymarWith Ruben Neves, Joao Cancelo, Renan Lodi, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and Aleksandar Mitrovic in their squad, you can certainly expect them to feature.
A good performance at this stadium could also increase the credibility of the Saudi Pro League. Drawn in a containing group Real MadridMexican champions Pachuca and Red Bull Salzburg, there is certainly potential for progression.
“I think we can do well,” adds Koulibaly.
