Laporte Reveals Foreign Players Are Struggling To Adapt To Saudi Arabia Arabia

The Saudi Pro League has seen an influx of several big names from Europe ever since Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al Nassr at the end of 2022.

But this week, former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson became the first of them to abandon his hefty salary at Al Ettifaq and return to Europe with Ajax Amsterdam after failing to adapt.

Henderson lasted just six months in Saudi Arabia and there are reports that Karim Benzema and Roberto Firmino are also looking for a way out of their respective clubs.

Spain international Laporte, who joined Al Nassr from Manchester City last August, has told AS: “It is a big change compared to Europe, but in the end it is all about adaptation.

“They have not made it easy for us. In fact, there are many players that are discontented.

“But we are working on it every day, to see if it can improve a little. This is something new for them also, to have European players that have had long careers.

“Maybe they are not used to this and have to adapt a little more in terms of seriousness.”

“Yes they look after us, but not enough for my liking. In Europe they pay you a good salary but they look after you more.

“I am not looking (to leave). I have not thought about it but if I am upset in the near future, you have to ask yourself questions. I have not arrived at that moment but I could face it in future if that dynamic continues.”

“Being honest, many of us have not only come here for the football.

“Many of us are happy with that but I am looking for something beyond the economic side. In terms of quality of life, I hoped for something different.”