Spanish Defender Aymeric Laporte has taken an unexpected turn in his career, bidding adieu to Manchester City and embarking on an exciting venture with Al-Nassr, a dominant force in the Saudi Pro League.
The transfer of the highly-regarded player, with a price tag of 27.5 million euros (£23.6 million), signifies the conclusion of his remarkable stint at City, where he played a pivotal role in securing a total of 12 major championships.
Laporte, who initially joined Manchester City from Athletic Bilbao in January 2018 for a then-record fee of £57 million, has indelibly left his mark on the annals of City’s history.
With an impressive track record of 180 appearances and 12 goals, the 29-year-old defender endeared himself to the fans.
However, the last season witnessed a shift in the team dynamics as emerging defenders like Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake gained prominence.
Sharing his sentiments on social media, Laporte conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the fans and his teammates, reflecting on the cherished memories and invaluable experiences that have shaped his journey.
“Wearing these colors was both an honor and a pleasure, and I hope to be remembered positively,” he expressed. Laporte joins the illustrious roster of star players at Al-Nassr, a list that boasts names such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Marcelo Brozovic, Alex Telles, and Seko Fofana.
The Saudi Pro League has undergone a substantial transformation, fueled by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) taking over prominent clubs including Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli.
Laporte’s move to Al-Nassr adds to the constellation of high-profile signings, ushering in a new era of thrill and anticipation for fans worldwide.
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