Former Nigeria international Mike Emenalo has been appointed as the first ever sporting director of the Saudi Pro League (SPL), OwnGoalNigeria.com understands.
Emenalo, who represented Nigeria at the 1994 World Cup in the USA occupied a similar role at Chelsea for six years precisely from 2011-2017, he was heavily involved in the scouting and signing of top talents like Eden Hazard, Kevin De Bruyne, Mohammed Salah and N’golo Kante to Chelsea.
He spent two years at Ligue 1 side Monaco but not much can be said about his success at the helm. That didn’t deter the Saudis from handing him this role which will require him to develop frameworks and also apply the kind of principles that are seen in the best leagues in the world.
The 57 year old will be allowed to bring in his own staff to help him settle down quickly in his new surroundings but he will work with some Saudis in the nearest future in a bid to help them learn the industry and build a career of thier own.
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman