In a dramatic twist, Paulo Dybala has rejected a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia and decided to stay at Roma, exceeding all expectations and sparking joy among fans. The Argentine star was on the verge of leaving. Dybala reportedly had an $84 million deal with Al-Qadsiah on the table for three years. But in a move that surprised many, Dybala decided to continue his journey in Italy.
Al-Qadsiah, a newly promoted Saudi club with big ambitions, made several attempts to lure the Argentine away from Roma. The club offered him a staggering $28 million per season for three years. This deal would have made him one of the highest-paid players in the world. Dybala had reportedly already said goodbye to his teammates and fans at the Trigoria training ground, so it seemed like he was leaving.
He even skipped the Serie A photoshoot, suggesting his departure was imminent. However, Roma had not yet accepted Al-Qadsiah’s offer, which was reportedly worth just $3.3 million plus bonuses. The final decision was Dybala’s, and in the end he decided to stay.
Emotional farewell that wasn’t one
What was the trigger for this sudden change of heart? According to reports from Sky Italia, it was the emotional farewell to his teammates. His close friends and fellow Argentinians Leandro Paredes and Matias Soule played a significant role in this. The realisation of leaving these relationships behind, coupled with the expression of love from the fans, weighed heavily on Dybala. Messages from fans urging him not to end his European career and advice from his family also influenced his decision.
Gianluca Di Marzio, a well-known Italian sports journalist, highlighted the influence of Dybala’s family on his decision. They were reportedly not keen on moving to Saudi Arabia, which further tipped the balance in favour of staying in Rome.
Roma fans steadfastly support Dybala despite links to Saudi Arabia
Roma fans had been venting their emotions all summer by protesting outside the club’s training ground and begging management not to sell their star player. Their loyalty and passion were rewarded when Dybala said: “Thank you, Roma. See you on Sunday.” The announcement sent waves of relief and excitement through Roma fans, who gathered outside the player’s home to celebrate his decision.
Leandro Paredes, Dybala’s teammate at Roma and the Argentine national team, expressed his joy on social media, posting: “For those who didn’t understand: he’s staying with us.” Since then, the atmosphere at the Stadio Olimpico has been electric, with fans eagerly awaiting Dybala’s return to the pitch.
The 30-year-old stays and boosts the Giallorossi’s hopes for the season. Although he is entering the final year of his contract, he has an automatic renewal clause that will be activated after 15 official appearances. This clause would earn him $8.4 million plus a $2.2 million bonus, a considerable sum but far less than what Al-Qadsiah offered.
Since moving to the Stadio Olimpico from Juventus in 2022, Dybala has become an integral part of the team, scoring 34 goals and providing 18 assists in 78 appearances. His decision to stay is a huge boost for Roma coach Daniele De Rossi, who has now tied down one of his key players to the club for another season.
PHOTOS: IMAGO
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