Saudi Arabia Football Federation (SAFF) releases news via media

On the afternoon of April 6, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) sent a message through the media, cleverly conveying an offer to coach Mourinho: a two-year contract to lead the Saudi Arabian national team, with a salary of 100 million pounds.

This is an open contract because after the first year, if Mourinho finds that he is not suitable for the land and the person, he has the right to "tear up" the contract and leave. If he continues to execute the contract until the second year, the "special one" must do another task, which is to lead the Saudi Arabian team until the end of the 2026 World Cup .

SAFF leaders were forced to act decisively for many reasons. Firstly, Mourinho is in the sights of Chelsea, Tottenham and possibly Real Madrid. Secondly, and this is important, after Qatar's success in hosting the 2022 World Cup, Saudi Arabia realized that football in particular and sports in general are effective channels to promote the national image and create a buzz. Therefore, SAFF did not hesitate to spend 100 million pounds to invite Mourinho to coach the national team. In terms of media attraction, this strategist born in 1963 always has many impressive tricks.

Roma are competing for a Champions League spot next season in Serie A. Mourinho is popular with players and fans but does not have the full support of the club's board. That is why, up to now, there have been no contract extension negotiations between Mourinho and the club's board (the contract ends in June 2024). The offer from SAFF could be both a new direction for Mourinho and an excuse for Roma's board to avoid upsetting fans. Roma could even earn a large sum of money if Mourinho leaves before the final year of his contract.

Mourinho had asked the Roma board to strengthen a centre-back, a midfielder and a striker this summer if he wanted to extend his contract. But with the offer hot on the British pound, Mourinho must have other ideas in mind.

Cristiano Ronaldo 's club Al-Nassr are also said to be interested in Mourinho, with current coach Rudi Garcia likely to leave at the end of the season. SAFF and Al-Nassr's owners would be in a position to act, provided the 'special one' agrees to travel to Saudi Arabia for a trial. £100m is a hard figure to turn down for a two-year contract. SAFF have played their cards squarely on the table: the figure is only a fixed salary, not including bonuses and other fringe benefits. At 60, a desert adventure is not Mourinho's priority. But if the trip is guaranteed at least £100m, then perhaps the 'special one' is picking a good day to meet the SAFF leadership.

THANH NAM

Mr. Tran Quoc Tuan was elected President of Vietnam Football Federation.

On November 6, in Hanoi , the Vietnam Football Federation held its 9th congress for the 2022-2026 term.