Saudi club Al Nassr has officially confirmed the signing of Bayern Munich striker Sadio Mane. Mane, a Senegal star, will now team up with five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo.
This move sees Mane become the latest high-profile player to join the cash-rich Saudi league.
Mane expressed his excitement in a video message to Al Nassr supporters, saying, “I’m really happy to be part of you guys, I can’t wait to see you.”
The transfer deal, which involved the former Liverpool star, was estimated at around €30 million. Mane has signed a three-year contract with Al Nassr, earning an annual salary of €40 million plus €10 million in results-based bonuses.
Mane, who still had two years remaining on his contract at Bayern, expressed his regret at leaving the club. He stated, “Leaving Bayern hurts me. I would have wished for a different ending.”
Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel shared similar sentiments, acknowledging that the situation was not ideal. Tuchel said, “Sometimes things don’t work out as everybody wants it to work out. In person, I have always had a very good relationship with him and this will stay.”
Al Nassr initiated a series of signings by Saudi clubs with their acquisition of Ronaldo on a four-year contract. Mane, who won the Champions League and Premier League during his time with Liverpool, formed a crucial part of Jurgen Klopp’s attacking trio alongside Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino.
However, Mane decided to seek a new challenge in the summer of 2022, reportedly due to his desire for greater recognition at Anfield and away from Salah’s shadow.
Following a strong start to the season at Bayern, Mane struggled to find his form. In November, he suffered a fibula injury, forcing him to miss the World Cup and dealing a blow to Senegal’s chances.
Despite returning to the Bayern team in 2023, Mane’s problems continued as he became involved in a physical altercation with teammate Leroy Sane after a Champions League defeat to Manchester City. He ended the season with 12 goals in 38 games across all competitions.
In addition to Ronaldo, Al Nassr has made several other high-profile signings this summer, including Marcelo Brozovic, Alex Telles, and Seko Fofana. Other Saudi clubs have also secured notable players, such as Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, and Jordan Henderson.
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