Matteo Dams leaves PSV for Al-Ahli: Young Belgian full-back signs multi-million dollar contract in Saudi Arabia
Belgian full-back Matteo Dams, just 20 years old, has left PSV Eindhoven to join Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia. The transfer, valued at €10 million, shocked the European football market, especially given the player’s reputation as one of the most promising names for the Belgian national team’s future.
Salary 100 Times Higher Convinced the Player
The decisive factor was financial. At PSV, Dams earned only €2,500 per month. In Saudi Arabia, his new deal will pay him an astonishing €250,000 monthly — 100 times more than his previous salary.
According to the player, his first reaction was to laugh at the offer, but the combination of money and recognition made the decision “impossible to refuse.”
Saudi Arabia’s Strategy to Attract Young Talent
The signing of Dams highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing strategy: investing not only in established veterans but also in young European talents before they reach their prime.
The €10 million fee confirms how serious the Saudi Pro League is about reshaping global football power dynamics, aiming to attract players at different career stages.
Risks for Matteo Dams and Belgian National Team Future
While financially secure, Dams now faces a significant challenge: remaining relevant at the highest level of football. Playing outside Europe’s elite leagues could jeopardize his chances of consistent call-ups to the Belgian national team, particularly in a position where competition is already high.
Analysts point out that this case intensifies the pressure on European clubs to offer not just sporting projects but also competitive financial conditions if they want to keep young talent at home.
A Bold Bet at Age 20
For Dams, the decision was about more than money it was about feeling valued and trusted. However, at just 20, he now carries the burden of proving that a move to Saudi Arabia can still coexist with long-term sporting ambitions.
The coming seasons will determine whether Matteo Dams becomes a pioneer for young talents seeking fortune outside Europe, or whether this bold step will limit his path at the top level.
