The former Manchester City defender, who joined Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League this summer, has expressed disappointment with his experience in Saudi Arabia. Aymeric Laporte disclosed that several European players, including himself, are finding it challenging to adapt to life in the Middle Eastern country despite Ronaldo’s earlier claim that the league is superior to Ligue 1.
In an interview with AS, Laporte acknowledged the significant change compared to Europe but emphasized the ongoing adaptation process. He revealed that many players are dissatisfied, pointing out the difficulties they face. Laporte mentioned ongoing negotiations to address the challenges, emphasizing the need for improvement, especially for European players with extensive careers who may not be accustomed to the new environment.
Laporte made a serious allegation against the Saudi Arabian authorities, stating that contracts are not honored in various aspects, both on a daily basis and in the broader sense. He highlighted the casual approach to life and business, expressing frustration with negotiations that do not align with signed agreements.
The defender’s revelations shed light on the ground realities in Saudi Arabia, following the recent departure of former Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson from Al-Ettifaq due to struggles in adapting to the Gulf country’s ways.
When questioned about the possibility of following Henderson’s footsteps, Laporte admitted that he hasn’t considered it yet but expressed concern about the ongoing dynamic. He emphasized that while they are taken care of to some extent, the level of care falls short of European standards. Laporte, who joined Al-Nassr in late August on a three-year deal with a reported annual salary of £21m ($26.6m), clarified that many players, including himself, came for reasons beyond football, seeking a better quality of life.
Laporte pointed out his dissatisfaction with the daily three-hour commute in Riyadh’s traffic, contrasting it with Europe’s better quality of life. Despite his disappointment, Laporte is set to return to action in friendly matches, hoping for improvement in the overall experience in Saudi Arabia.
Aymeric Laporte
Aymeric Laporte
This season he played in total 15 times for 1259 minutes for Pro League.
Aymeric Laporte scored 2 goals for Al Nassr. He procured one assist. He received 2 yellow cards and no red cards.
His team is currently 2nd in Pro League. In the last match Al Nassr won 4-1 against Al Taawon. The next match in Pro League will be against Al Fateh.
Al Nassr performance and stats
It will be Al Nassr ended the league in the 2nd position with 46 points.
In the last 19 games, it has won 15 times, drawn once, and lost 3 times. In its last match, Al Nassr won 1-4 against Al Taawon.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 55 goals and conceding 23.
Al Nassr will play the next match in Pro League against Al Fateh on Wednesday 14th of February in Riyadh.