Saudi Football Star Salem Al-Dossari Nearly Joined Rival Club in 2016
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – In a surprising revelation, Salem Al-Dossari, the current captain of Saudi Arabian football powerhouse Al-Hilal, was on the verge of signing with their fierce rivals, Al-Ittihad, back in 2016. The potential transfer, which included a substantial financial package and a luxury vehicle, ultimately fell through, with Al-Dossari renewing his contract with Al-Hilal. The details of this near-move have recently come to light through comments made by Saudi sports journalist Mohammed Al-Bakiri.
Al-Bakiri, speaking on the “Al-Wiam” podcast, detailed how Al-Dossari entered the free period of his contract with Al-Hilal and subsequently signed a preliminary agreement with Al-Ittihad. This decision stemmed from the player’s frustration with criticism he had been receiving following a dip in his performance. The potential move underscores the competitive landscape of Saudi football and the lengths clubs will go to secure top talent. This story highlights the often-complex dynamics between players, clubs, and fan expectations within the Saudi Pro League.
A Lucrative Offer from Al-Ittihad
The offer presented to Al-Dossari by Al-Ittihad was remarkably generous. According to Al-Bakiri, the deal included a salary of 6 million Saudi Riyals (approximately $1.6 million USD as of February 25, 2026), a new car, and an additional 1 million Riyals for his agent. Al-Rajol reports that Abdullah Sharaf Al-Din, who was the General Supervisor of Football at Al-Ittihad at the time, successfully led the negotiations with Al-Dossari.
The financial incentives offered by Al-Ittihad were clearly intended to sway Al-Dossari, capitalizing on his dissatisfaction with the criticism he faced at Al-Hilal. The inclusion of a vehicle as part of the package is a notable detail, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of the offer. This level of financial commitment reflects Al-Ittihad’s ambition to strengthen their squad and challenge Al-Hilal’s dominance in Saudi football.
Sudden Change of Heart and Contract Renewal
Despite having signed a preliminary agreement with Al-Ittihad, Al-Dossari ultimately decided to remain with Al-Hilal, renewing his contract with the club. Al-Bakiri noted that the reason for this sudden change of heart remains unclear. Erem News likewise reported on this surprising turn of events, emphasizing the mystery surrounding Al-Dossari’s decision.
Al-Bakiri further suggested that the lack of public knowledge about the initial agreement with Al-Ittihad allowed Al-Dossari to avoid potential sanctions, as signing contracts with two clubs simultaneously is generally prohibited. This raises questions about the transparency of player transfers and the enforcement of regulations within Saudi football. The situation highlights the potential for such deals to remain concealed, particularly when high-profile players are involved.
Implications for Saudi Football
This revelation sheds light on the intense rivalry between Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad, two of the most successful and popular clubs in Saudi Arabia. The willingness of Al-Ittihad to make such a substantial offer for Al-Dossari underscores their determination to compete with Al-Hilal for domestic titles and regional recognition. The incident also highlights the growing financial power of Saudi clubs, which are increasingly able to attract and retain top players.
The Saudi Pro League has seen significant investment in recent years, with clubs actively seeking to enhance their squads with both domestic and international talent. This influx of funds has led to increased competition and a higher standard of play. The Al-Dossari situation serves as a reminder of the complex negotiations and behind-the-scenes maneuvering that often characterize player transfers in the modern game.
Salem Al-Dossari’s Career Trajectory
Salem Al-Dossari has established himself as a key player for both Al-Hilal and the Saudi national team. He has won numerous titles with Al-Hilal, including the Saudi Professional League and the AFC Champions League. He has also represented Saudi Arabia at the FIFA World Cup and the Asian Cup. Yemen Press details the timeline of events, emphasizing the eight years that have passed since the initial negotiations.
Al-Dossari’s continued success with Al-Hilal has solidified his status as one of the most respected and admired footballers in Saudi Arabia. His decision to remain with the club in 2016, despite the tempting offer from Al-Ittihad, appears to have been a pivotal moment in his career. He remains a vital component of Al-Hilal’s ambitions, both domestically and continentally.
Key Takeaways:
- In 2016, Salem Al-Dossari was close to joining Al-Ittihad from Al-Hilal.
- The proposed deal included a 6 million Riyal salary, a car, and 1 million Riyal for his agent.
- Al-Dossari ultimately renewed his contract with Al-Hilal for undisclosed reasons.
- The incident highlights the intense rivalry between Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad.
The Saudi Professional League continues to evolve, with increasing investment and competition. Fans will be watching closely to see how these developments shape the future of Saudi football. Further updates on player transfers and league developments will be reported as they become available. Share your thoughts on this surprising revelation in the comments below.
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