Mourinho to Al Shabab now only depends on the Hiring Committee

The potential move of renowned football manager José Mourinho to Al Shabab Football Club has reached a crucial stage, with the final decision now resting in the hands of the club's Hiring Committee.

SoccerDino, Website Writer
Published: 11:48, 20 Jan 2024

The potential signing of José Mourinho by Al Shabab Football Club, as reported by a source to “Arriyadiyah,” has become a major talking point in the football world. 

This development represents a significant shift in Mourinho's illustrious career, as he agrees to take the helm of a club currently ranked 11th in the Middle Eastern championship. Known for his tactical brilliance and a history of success in European football, Mourinho's move to Al Shabab could mark a new chapter in both his career and the Saudi Arabian football scene.

The agreement with Mourinho was reached in a modern fashion, via a Zoom call with Al Shabab's sporting director. This approach highlights the increasing use of technology in conducting international football transactions. Saad Al-Ladhiz, the president of the Hiring Committee and CEO of the League, has been closely involved in the negotiations but is yet to give his final nod. His approval is crucial for the deal to go through, adding a layer of suspense to the ongoing saga.

Al Shabab is keen to finalize this high-profile signing before their winter training camp in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This camp is a preparatory step for their return to the Saudi Arabian league, where they aim to improve their standing, starting with their next match against Damac on February 15th. Mourinho’s potential presence is expected to boost the team's morale and performance.

In addition to Mourinho, Al Shabab is reportedly close to securing two more significant signings. The club is on the verge of bringing in Politano, a skilled Italian international midfielder from Napoli. This move signifies the club's ambition to strengthen its midfield with a player of high caliber and European experience. Furthermore, Marcelo Grohe, the Brazilian international goalkeeper, is nearly set to join Al Shabab on loan from Al Ittihad. Grohe’s arrival would bolster the team's defensive capabilities, bringing in a goalkeeper with international exposure and experience.

These potential signings, particularly that of Mourinho, signal a strategic shift for Al Shabab, as they appear to be investing heavily in bringing in international talent to elevate the team’s performance and status in the league. This approach could transform the club into a formidable force in the region and potentially attract more global attention to Saudi Arabian football. The moves are indicative of Al Shabab's ambition to not only compete more effectively within their league but also to raise their profile on the international stage.

Updated: 11:48, 20 Jan 2024