In a major move, Saudi side Al Nassr confirmed the signing of Senegal star Sadio Mane from Bayern Munich on Tuesday.
Mane, the twice African footballer of the year, is set to join forces with five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo in what promises to be a formidable partnership.
Mane expressed his excitement about the new chapter in a video message to Al Nassr supporters on the club’s social media platforms. The transfer, estimated at around 30 million euros, brings Mane to Al Nassr on a three-year deal with a substantial annual salary of 40 million, along with 10 million in results-based bonuses.
Earlier on the same day, the 31-year-old forward had reflected on his departure from Bayern Munich, expressing mixed emotions as he had two years remaining on his contract with the German club.
Mane’s move to Al Nassr is the latest coup in a series of high-profile signings by Saudi clubs, including the capture of Cristiano Ronaldo on a four-year contract.
During his successful tenure at Liverpool, Mane was instrumental in helping the team clinch the Champions League and Premier League titles. His partnership with Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino formed a devastating attacking trio that struck fear into opponents.
Despite his impressive accomplishments with Liverpool, Mane sought a new challenge in the summer of 2022, with rumours suggesting that he wanted to step out of Salah’s shadow.
Bayern Munich, eager to secure Mane’s services, aimed to make him the focal point of their attack after losing Robert Lewandowski to Barcelona. However, things didn’t pan out as expected, and Mane struggled to find his footing in Bavaria.
An injury to his fibula in a Bundesliga game against Werder Bremen further hindered his progress, preventing him from participating in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Mane’s season with Bayern was fraught with difficulties, and he faced disciplinary action after getting involved in a physical altercation with teammate Leroy Sane following a Champions League defeat to Manchester City.
With an underwhelming tally of 12 goals in 38 games across all competitions, Mane’s time at Bayern came to an end. The club and the player mutually agreed to part ways, leading him to embark on a new journey with Al Nassr.
The Saudi club has been making significant moves in the transfer market, adding top talents like Marcelo Brozovic, Alex Telles, and Seko Fofana to their ranks.
