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Tessel Middag discusses Saudi Arabia's impact on football contracts

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 19, 2026, 10:05 PM

Last updated Sep 19, 2026

Tessel Middag discusses Saudi Arabia's impact on football contracts

Summary

Tessel Middag, a former Netherlands international, spoke about the influence of Saudi Arabian investment in football during an interview with De Volkskrant. Middag emphasized the difficult choices faced by players offered lucrative contracts, reflecting on her decision to decline a €20,000 monthly offer to play in Saudi Arabia. She stressed the importance of considering human rights concerns amid the financial allure of such contracts. The interview highlights the increasing presence of Saudi money in both men's and women's football, including the controversial move of Spain international Esther González to Al-Qadsiah after leaving Gotham FC.

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By the Numbers

•Middag turned down a €20,000 per month offer from Saudi Arabia.
•She spoke about the human rights issues related to Saudi Arabia's influence on football.
•González's transfer to Al-Qadsiah raises concerns about players' choices under financial pressure.
•Middag's experience underlines the significant financial incentives for players.
•The discussion reflects a broader trend of Saudi investment in women's football.

Latest Updates

10:05 PMYahoo Sports — ‘You always have a choice’: Tessel Middag speaks out against Saudi Arabia’s influence on football

What they're saying

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Former Netherlands international Tessel Middag spoke to De Volkskrant journalist Dirk Jacob Nieuwboer about the growing influence of Saudi Arabian oil money on football, the human rights concerns surr...
— Yahoo Sports

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