Fabinho’s Saudi Arabian Dream Stumbles

In a world where football transfers are as predictable as British weather, Liverpool’s very own Fabinho finds himself in the midst of a potential move to Saudi Arabia’s Al Ittihad. Yet, it seems the journey may have hit a bump or two.

Set at a staggering £40 million, Fabinho’s envisaged move to Al Ittihad has encountered unexpected hitches. Though the intent from both sides remains unswerving, there appears to be an unforeseen pause in the proceedings. As it stands, our Brazilian midfield maestro is likely to don his Liverpool jersey for pre-season training this Wednesday.

It was a move so anticipated, Jurgen Klopp, the master tactician, even kept him out of the squad for their German summer escapade. The outcome? Fabinho, back on Merseyside, potentially gearing up for another spell at the AXA Training Centre, unless destiny – or football diplomacy – has a twist in store.

And for those wagging tongues hinting the deal might stumble because of Saudi regulations on Fabinho’s French bulldogs? Well, they can rest easy. This little twist in the narrative isn’t about our midfielder’s furry friends.

As David Ornstein from The Athletic reports, there’s still a shimmer of hope. Given the firm ties between Fabinho’s representative, Jorge Mendes, Liverpool and Saudi, it’s not too far-fetched to believe that Fabinho could still find himself on a Saudi pitch.

🚨 Fabinho transfer to Al-Ittihad in jeopardy. Talks ongoing + all parties committed to deal. But there is a delay & 29yo to resume #LFC training on Weds, unless breakthrough made beforehand. Absolutely nothing to do with his dogs @TheAthleticFC #Alittihad https://t.co/NSORxqEaph

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) July 25, 2023

Liverpool’s Midfield Pivot

While the saga with Fabinho unfolds, Liverpool have not been idle. With captain Jordan Henderson eyeing the gleaming shores of Saudi Arabia for a tempting partnership with Al Ettifaq, the Merseyside management has been scouting. Their radar apparently captures talent from Crystal Palace’s Cheick Doucoure to Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips.

It’s undeniable; a renaissance is afoot in Liverpool’s midfield. New faces, like Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, have joined the ranks. Simultaneously, stalwarts like James Milner and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain bid their goodbyes at the end of June, with Fabio Carvalho also setting out on a new adventure with RB Leipzig.

Last season, Fabinho’s boots graced the pitch 49 times under Klopp’s guidance, reinforcing his linchpin status.

Al Ittihad’s Star-studded Ambitions

But while the Reds recalibrate, Al Ittihad is busy amassing a constellation. They’ve got their hands on football titans – Chelsea’s N’Golo Kante, Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema, and Jota from Celtic.

In conclusion, the football world waits, breath baited, to see where Fabinho’s journey will take him next. Will it be a continuation of his Anfield exploits or a new chapter in Saudi Arabia with Al Ittihad? Only time, and perhaps a little negotiation, will tell.