“I just started laughing”: How a Saudi club’s 100x salary offer stunned a 20-year-old Dutch footballer

At just 20, Matteo Dams left PSV for Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli in a surprise €10M move, citing a “ridiculously high” salary and the club’s strong intent. Initially hesitant, he quickly embraced the decision, helping Al Ahli win the AFC Champions League. His transfer reflects a strategic Saudi shift toward signing Europe’s top emerging talents.

Sep 9, 2025 - 15:00
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“I just started laughing”: How a Saudi club’s 100x salary offer stunned a 20-year-old Dutch footballer
At just 20, Matteo Dams left PSV for Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli in a surprise €10M move, citing a “ridiculously high” salary and the club’s strong intent. Initially hesitant, he quickly embraced the decision, helping Al Ahli win the AFC Champions League. His transfer reflects a strategic Saudi shift toward signing Europe’s top emerging talents.

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