Officially... Lens activates the clause to purchase Saud Abdulhamid
In a historic move for Saudi football, the president of French club Lens, Joseph Ougourlian, announced in an exclusive statement to the Saudi newspaper Okaz that the club has exercised its option to permanently acquire Saudi international Saud Abdulhamid from Italian club Roma. This announcement represents the culmination of the player's exceptional performance during his loan spell and underscores the great confidence the French club's management has in the Saudi star's abilities.
Details of the deal and statements from the president of Lens
Ougourlian confirmed that the French club had made its final decision to exercise the purchase option after the player's impressive performances. He stated, "We have exercised our option to sign Saoud Abdulhamid permanently, and Roma did not make any counter-attack or attempt to obstruct the deal. We at Lens love this player and appreciate what he brings to the team." The club president added enthusiastically, "It's official now. We are extremely happy to have him with us, and we can't wait for him to participate in the Champions League next season," reflecting the high hopes placed on the player in continental competitions.
The historical context of Saudi players' professional careers in Europe
This move comes within the context of a strategic shift in Saudi sports, as the Kingdom, through its sports plans, seeks to develop local talent and export it to play professionally in the world's strongest leagues. Saud Abdulhamid's move to European football, from joining AS Roma in Italy to his impressive performance with Lens in France during the last winter transfer window, opens wide the door for future generations of Saudi and Arab players to pursue professional careers abroad. The success of a Saudi player in securing a starting position at a top European club is a precedent that enhances the international standing of Saudi football.
Exceptional numbers and a historic season with Lens
Since joining Lens on loan with an option to buy, Saud Abdulhamid has proven to be a valuable addition to the team. The Saudi star has made 31 appearances across all competitions. His contributions haven't been limited to defensive duties; he has also been instrumental in the attack, scoring three goals and providing eight assists for his teammates.
The event's impact locally and internationally, and its unprecedented achievements
Locally and regionally, Saud Abdulhamid's success is a major source of inspiration and will positively impact the performance of the Saudi national team thanks to his exposure to top-level competition. Internationally, he played a direct role in securing Lens a place in next season's UEFA Champions League after the team finished second in Ligue 1 with 70 points, just seven points behind champions Paris Saint-Germain.
The Saudi star’s achievements did not stop there, as he crowned his exceptional season by winning his first title in his European career, as he contributed to Lens winning the French Cup title after the exciting victory over Nice by three goals to one last Friday, thus establishing himself as one of the most prominent professionals in the Old Continent.
