For Second Year in Row Diriyah Named Official Sponsor of Diriyah Saudi Super Cup

The decision to extend the partnership between the two parties results from the successful collaboration during the last tournament held in Abu Dhabi.
The decision to extend the partnership between the two parties results from the successful collaboration during the last tournament held in Abu Dhabi.
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For Second Year in Row Diriyah Named Official Sponsor of Diriyah Saudi Super Cup

The decision to extend the partnership between the two parties results from the successful collaboration during the last tournament held in Abu Dhabi.
The decision to extend the partnership between the two parties results from the successful collaboration during the last tournament held in Abu Dhabi.

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation, in partnership with SMC as the exclusive commercial partner, signed an agreement with Diriyah Company to sponsor the Saudi Super Cup tournament for the second consecutive year under the name of Diriyah Saudi Super Cup.

The event is scheduled to take place in Abha from August 13 to 17, with the participation of four clubs: Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ahly, and Al Taawoun, SPA reported.
The decision to extend the partnership between the two parties results from the successful collaboration during the last tournament held in Abu Dhabi from April 8 to 11. Al Hilal emerged as the Diriyah Saudi Super Cup champion in that edition.
Diriyah Company Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo emphasized that "the popularity of Saudi football and its top teams was the main motivation behind renewing the partnership with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation to sponsor Diriyah Saudi Super Cup again. He added that Diriyah Company Group seeks to capitalize on the marketing opportunities in sports and the attention it garners, thanks to the presence of several international players and the high level of competition."
Secretary General of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, Ibrahim Al Kassim, said that renewing the agreement with Diriyah Company indicates the success of the previous Diriyah Saudi Super Cup. The competition featured strong matches between Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, Al Nassr, and Al Wahda. Al Kassim pointed out that this agreement is part of the federation's efforts to create investment and marketing opportunities, increase revenues, and diversify income sources aligned with Saudi Vision 2030's goals.
Al Kassim stated: "We in the Football Association are proud of the ongoing sponsorship, which is instrumental in promoting the key cultural, heritage, and tourism destinations throughout the Kingdom. This initiative not only highlights the historical, cultural, and competitive tourism benefits of the Kingdom but also demonstrates the considerable support and notable advancements being achieved. The partnership reflects the objectives of governmental entities and both public and private sectors in fostering collaborations that improve competitiveness and bolster investment initiatives in alignment with the Kingdom's goals."
SMC CEO Khalid bin Waleed AlKhudair said: "We take pride in renewing our partnership with Diriyah Company, a move that reflects our commitment to enhancing the sports landscape in Saudi Arabia and elevating its status on the international stage in alignment with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030."
AlKhudair added that "the success of the previous edition has strengthened the status of the Saudi Super Cup as one of the most prominent sporting events in the region. Furthermore, our collaboration with Diriyah aligns with our commitment to providing an exceptional sports experience that reflects the significant advancements the Kingdom is achieving across various sectors."



Argentina Striker Julian Alvarez Joins Atletico Madrid from Man City in Deal Worth around $103M

Soccer Football - Premier League - Manchester City v Newcastle United - Etihad Stadium, Manchester, Britain - August 19, 2023 Manchester City's Julian Alvarez celebrates scoring their first goal. (Action Images via Reuters)
Soccer Football - Premier League - Manchester City v Newcastle United - Etihad Stadium, Manchester, Britain - August 19, 2023 Manchester City's Julian Alvarez celebrates scoring their first goal. (Action Images via Reuters)
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Argentina Striker Julian Alvarez Joins Atletico Madrid from Man City in Deal Worth around $103M

Soccer Football - Premier League - Manchester City v Newcastle United - Etihad Stadium, Manchester, Britain - August 19, 2023 Manchester City's Julian Alvarez celebrates scoring their first goal. (Action Images via Reuters)
Soccer Football - Premier League - Manchester City v Newcastle United - Etihad Stadium, Manchester, Britain - August 19, 2023 Manchester City's Julian Alvarez celebrates scoring their first goal. (Action Images via Reuters)

Argentina striker Julian Alvarez joined Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in a deal reportedly worth more than $103 million on Monday, ending his trophy-laden two-year spell at the English champions.

City manager Pep Guardiola said last week that Alvarez told him he wanted to leave for a new challenge.

Alvarez left Argentine team River Plate in 2022 for 14 million pounds (now $17.8 million) and helped City win the Premier League in both seasons he was in England, as well as the Champions League, the FA Cup and the Club World Cup.

In 103 appearances in all competitions, Alvarez scored 36 goals.

However, despite being first choice for Argentina, he was behind Erling Haaland in the City pecking order.

City could reportedly get up to 95 million euros ($104 million) for the 24-year-old Alvarez.

“Today I say goodbye to this amazing club, with a lot of emotion," he said. “These have been two very special years. During this time, I have grown and learnt a lot — both as a player and as a person.”

City director of football Txiki Begiristain said Alvarez's "attitude has been first-class since he first walked through the door here.

“That’s why he has improved so much,” Begiristain added. “The trophies he has won already tell their own story — he is a winner. I look forward to watching him develop further in the remainder of his career.”

City’s only signing in this transfer window is Brazil winger Savio.

Asked if City would be replacing Alvarez in the squad ahead of the new season, which starts on Friday, Guardiola said last week: “I don’t know yet. We talk every day, we see what happens.”