The Saudi Boxing King Who Wants to Own Your Football Club (But Not If You're Up North)

By Lewis Barnett 28 May, 2025 5 mins read 95 Views

So here's something I didn't see coming this week.

Turki Alalshikh – you know, the Saudi billionaire who's basically turned boxing into his personal chess game – apparently wants to buy an English football club. And he's being weirdly picky about it. Like, really weirdly picky.

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Millwall Said What Now?

Last week everyone was buzzing about Alalshikh supposedly having talks with Millwall. Championship side, decent fanbase, all that. Except... Millwall came out and basically said "nah, that never happened" and "we're not for sale anyway." Awkward.

Poor guy got shut down faster than my attempts to negotiate a raise.

But here's where it gets interesting. Simon Jordan from talkSPORT – and you know Jordan doesn't mess around with his sources – revealed that Alalshikh has now shifted his attention to Southampton. Fresh off their relegation from the Premier League, which honestly makes them a bit of a bargain right now if you've got Saudi money burning a hole in your pocket.

Geography Lessons with a Boxing Mogul

This is where things get genuinely weird. Jordan tried to pitch Sheffield Wednesday to Alalshikh (and God knows Wednesday could use the help with all their ownership drama). But apparently the 43-year-old Saudi chief just... doesn't want anything up north?

Jordan explained it perfectly: "He doesn't want a club in the north. He wants a club in the south. And Millwall and Southampton are the two clubs that he thinks are interesting to him."

I mean, fair enough. Maybe he's not a fan of Yorkshire puddings or something.

The Man Behind the Madness

For those who don't follow boxing (and honestly, you should), Alalshikh has become this massive power player in the sport. Chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, orchestrating fights that seemed impossible just a few years ago. The guy's got serious clout and even more serious money.

He recently sold Spanish second-division side Almeria, so clearly he's not afraid of the football business. But buying into English football? That's a whole different beast. Especially when you're being this selective about location.

Southampton's Timing Couldn't Be Better (Or Worse?)

The Saints just finished dead last in the Premier League – 20th place, relegated, the whole disaster package. They've appointed Will Still as their new manager over the weekend, which feels like trying to redecorate while your house is still on fire.

But here's the thing: relegated Premier League clubs can be goldmines if you've got the patience and the cash. And Alalshikh definitely has the cash.

Multiple English clubs have apparently been sniffing around him for potential takeovers. Smart move, really – Saudi money has been transforming sports left and right, and football was always going to be next on the list.

Whether Southampton becomes the next Saudi success story or just another expensive experiment... well, that's what makes this whole thing fascinating to watch unfold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to wear football-specific clothing, or can I wear any athletic gear?

Football-specific clothing can be worn, but it's recommended. It is made to increase performance and comfort. The jerseys and shorts used are made from lightweight materials, which allow air to flow freely, reducing sweat and overheating. Fit is tailored to allow for a full range motion. This can help improve agility and reaction times.

How can I make sure my football boots are the right size?

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Can the socks a footballer wear affect their performance?

Absolutely. Football socks protect and support the player's foot during intense play. The socks help to keep the shinguards on, they reduce friction which prevents blisters and they cushion the foot. The comfort of the player can be improved by a good pair. This can have an indirect impact on their performance.

Is there a specific regulation regarding the equipment that is used during competitive football games?

The rules of competitive football games often include specific equipment requirements to protect the players and ensure game integrity. Standard equipment includes jerseys that have sleeves, shorts covering shinguards and shoes. Equipment and apparel that can be dangerous to players or opponents is strictly prohibited. These regulations can vary according to leagues and age groups. It is important for players to follow these regulations to avoid penalties or being disqualified from playing.

What should I consider before buying a football?

When selecting a soccer, you should consider its size, the construction and the material. Standard size for adults and players above the age of 12, is 5. Sizes should be smaller for younger players. Leather should be used for natural grass while synthetic materials are best for surfaces with rougher textures. Thermo-bonded footballs are more waterproof and retain their shape better than those stitched. Durability is also an important characteristic to check.

Statistics

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Data shows that thermo-bonded footballs, known for their consistent performance, are preferred by 65% of professional football clubs for matches.
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Approximately 40% of amateur football players wear boots that are not properly fitted, increasing the risk of foot injuries.
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How To

How to choose the right football boots for your playing position

The choice of the right football boot can make or break your performance. Attackers tend to choose lightweight boots for agility and speed, while midfielders are more likely to select boots that provide a balance between controllability and comfort. Defensive players might opt for boots with enhanced protection and stability. The material is also important. Kangaroo skin provides softness with excellent ball feel while synthetic materials provide durability and water resistant. Correct sole plates, which are suited to your surface, can also play a vital role in preventing injury and ensuring good traction.

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