Saudi team, Al-Ittihad, sign fan favourite N'Golo Kante
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French midfield legend, N'Golo Kante, signs for Saudi Arabia club Al-Ittihad after big name players such as Karim Benzema and Ruben Neves have completed transfers to Saudi Pro League.
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N'Golo Kante poses for a photo as he displays the back of an Al-Ittihad jersey after signing for the club, 21 June 2023. (@ittihad_en/Twitter)
French midfielder N'Golo Kante, who was part of France's victorious World Cup team, has officially joined Saudi Arabian champions Al-Ittihad, as announced by the club on Wednesday. Kante will be reunited with his fellow countryman Karim Benzema who recently joined the Saudi team.
The club expressed their excitement about the acquisition on Twitter, declaring, "Kanté is an Ittihad player now! " Additionally, chairman Anmar Al-Hailee tweeted a warm welcome to Kante, referring to the team's nickname, "Welcome to our new tiger, Kante."
Where is kante ? 🤔
— Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) June 21, 2023
#WelcomeBox2Box pic.twitter.com/IvYl2zZ2E9
At 32 years old, Kante is the latest addition to the growing list of European stars opting to showcase their talents in the Saudi Arabian league, which has been making significant financial investments in elite sports.
Kante is renowned for his relentlessness and hard work in the middle of the park. He achieved success on the international stage by winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup with France. In his club career, he has amassed an impressive collection of trophies, including the UEFA Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup with Chelsea, as well as consecutive Premier League titles with Leicester City and Chelsea.
Read more: Benzema signs for Saudi Arabia's Al-Ittihad: Club source
Having reached the end of his contract with Chelsea this month, Kante received a heartfelt farewell from the London club, recognizing his immense contributions. Chelsea's co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley praised his tireless displays in midfield, which played a pivotal role in securing several trophies and securing a lasting place in the club's history.
Best players in the best team 👊🤩#WelcomeBox2Box
— Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) June 20, 2023
pic.twitter.com/urejQwiZo9
According to a statement from the Jeddah-based team, Kante has signed a three-year contract with Al-Ittihad, although specific details regarding his salary were not disclosed. The Saudi club considers Kante's arrival as one of the most significant and impactful signings in its history, aiming to solidify its position as a top destination for world-class players in the Saudi Professional League.
Kante will wear the number seven shirt at Al-Ittihad, just as he did during his tenure at Chelsea.
🆕 N'Golo Kanté is yellow 🟡💛#WelcomeBox2Box
— Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) June 20, 2023
pic.twitter.com/QuUhK8YxQq
Recently, Ballon d'Or holder Karim Benzema also joined Al-Ittihad after spending 14 seasons with Real Madrid, where he garnered five UEFA Champions League titles, four La Liga titles, and three Copa del Rey titles.
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