Joselu Refuses to Continue at Real Madrid After Mbappé’s Arrival
As the days passed, the uncertainties in his mind started to fade away. After carefully considering Real Madrid’s proposal to continue for an additional season by activating the purchase option included in his loan, Spanish international Joselu (34 years old) has decided to leave, as reported by Cope. Everything seems to indicate that the next destination for the Espanyol Barcelona player (returning to La Liga in 2024-2025) will be Saudi Arabia, according to Marca and As.
Qatar or Saudi Arabia?
Joselu has reportedly received an attractive offer in recent weeks from the lucrative Saudi Pro League, which would provide a significant increase in his salary (estimated at €2.5 million per year at Real Madrid). However, according to Fabrizio Romano, it appears that the player is leaning towards Qatar instead. An agreement with the Al Gharafa club is said to be on the verge of completion.
Joining discreetly last summer, Joselu had a very satisfying season (17 goals in all competitions, including 10 in La Liga) in line with the expectations placed on him, scoring crucial goals, including a brace against Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final second leg. Joselu scored two goals in quick succession against the Bavarian club, the first in the 88th minute and the second in the 91st minute, when Real Madrid was virtually eliminated.
Deterred by Mbappé’s Arrival
Carlo Ancelotti wanted to keep Joselu, both for his on-field qualities and for what he brought to the team daily, as mentioned by Marca. However, the arrivals of Kylian Mbappé and the Brazilian Endrick darkened Joselu’s prospects. The 34-year-old Spanish striker had never experienced top-level European football before this season.
While not a severe blow, his departure will undoubtedly be felt by Real Madrid, who have also just lost their captain from the past season, Nacho. The central defender has signed with Al Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia until 2026. This transfer is expected to be officially announced soon.