Bayern legend Lizarazu slams Coman over Saudi move | OneFootball

The departure of Kingsley Coman continues to stir emotions. While the 29-year-old has found his new sporting home in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr, a former Bayern star now speaks critically of this decision – and uses strong words.

During the past summer transfer window, Bayern let their long-time winger move to Saudi Arabia. The record champions received around 25 million euros for Coman, who wore Bayern's jersey for ten years in Munich. The Frenchman signed a contract with Al-Nassr until 2028.

Lizarazu criticizes Coman's decision

Photo: IMAGO

Bixente Lizarazu, himself a key figure at the German record champions between 1997 and 2006, cannot understand this move. “No one will convince me that you go to Saudi Arabia for sporting reasons,” he explained on French TV at Telefoot. “This is not a league where you get better. He could have played in one of the big European leagues, for example in England.”

The former left-back, who won the Champions League with Bayern in 2001 and became German champion six times, makes it clear: From his perspective, Coman's decision is primarily a step back in terms of career.

Consequences for the national team?

In addition to sporting development, Lizarazu also has the French national team in mind. With a view to N’Golo Kanté, who also no longer plays a role with “Les Bleus” after his move to Saudi Arabia, he warned: “For me, this is a kind of sporting resignation when he is still so young.”

Coman, 29 years old and at the peak of his career, may have also jeopardized his chances for further appearances in the national jersey with the move. For Lizarazu, it is clear: The move to Saudi Arabia does not advance the offensive player.

For FC Bayern, the transfer was at least economically sensible – the Munich team received a transfer fee and saved a high salary. However, for Coman himself, the move remains controversial. With the criticism from his compatriot Lizarazu, the debate now gains additional intensity.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.