DAMMAM — Former English international striker Jesse Lingard is set to embark on a new football journey as he joins Al-Ettifaq Club in the Saudi Arabian football league for a month of training. The announcement was made by Al-Ettifaq, the fourth-placed team in the league, through an official statement released on a Friday.
Al-Ettifaq's management, led by Samer Al-Mashal, approved the recommendation of the football committee to welcome Jesse Lingard to participate in the first-team training sessions. The decision to bring Lingard on board is based on his impressive track record and wealth of experience in football. Additionally, it is influenced by the star-studded lineup of Al-Ettifaq's players and the professionalism demonstrated by the club's administrative and coaching staff.
At 30 years old, Lingard is currently a free agent after his contract with Nottingham Forest expired in July of the previous year. He previously played a significant part of his career at Manchester United from 2011 to 2022 and represented the England national team in 32 matches.
Prior to this move, Lingard had been training with his former club, West Ham, following his departure from Nottingham Forest. Lingard's stint at Forest was characterized by a lackluster performance, during which he failed to score or provide any crucial assists in 17 English league matches.
In Saudi Arabia, Lingard will have the opportunity to link up with fellow countrymen, including manager Steven Gerrard and international midfielder Jordan Henderson, as he looks to make an impact in the Saudi Arabian football league. This new chapter in his career holds the promise of fresh opportunities and challenges as he seeks to revitalize his footballing journey.
