Stanley Okoro
Former Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte has shared his challenges and dissatisfaction with certain aspects of life in Saudi Arabia, revealing that several players are unhappy with their experiences. Laporte, who made a high-profile move to Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League last summer, disclosed that adapting to the new environment has been difficult.
Laporte’s revelations come amid recent departures from Saudi clubs, with England midfielder Jordan Henderson leaving Al-Ettifaq after less than six months to return to Europe with Ajax. Reports also suggest that players like Karim Benzema and Roberto Firmino are considering exits from Saudi clubs.
While Laporte has not reached the point of seeking an exit, he expressed difficulties in adjusting to life in Saudi Arabia. The 29-year-old Spain international acknowledged the significant change compared to Europe and mentioned that many players are discontented with their experiences.
According to Laporte, the adjustment process has been challenging, and the conditions in Saudi Arabia have not made it easy for European players, especially in terms of adapting to a different level of seriousness. Despite the lucrative deals and substantial wages offered in Saudi Arabia, Laporte believes that players are not treated as well as they are accustomed to at major European clubs.
Laporte emphasized the importance of adaptation and expressed hope for improvement in the future. He mentioned that the Saudi experience is new for both players and the local environment, especially considering the influx of European players with extensive careers.
While Laporte clarified that he is not actively seeking to leave, he hinted at the possibility of reconsidering his situation in the future if the current dynamics persist. He stressed that beyond the economic aspect, players like him are also looking for a certain quality of life, expressing a desire for something different from their day-to-day experiences in Saudi Arabia.
