RIYADH: Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi has come in for criticism in Saudi Arabia after he suggested to new Al-Hilal signing Neymar that all he had to do was greet his new employers and they will throw more money at him.
Paris Saint-Germain defender Hakimi was seen making the derogatory remark in a video bidding farewell to his departing teammate ahead of his move to Riyadh.
“Just say ‘Salam Aleykum’ and they will give you an additional €500 ($544),” Hakimi said jokingly to Al-Hilal’s new star signing.
The circulated video caused controversy among Saudi fans on social media platforms.
Many took the comment to be disrespectful and ungrateful, particularly as Hakimi had been named “Best Arab Sportsman” at the Joy Awards recently held in Riyadh.
Among the comments on the platform X, formerly Twitter, were “I suggest he send back the trophy back on Aramex, he doesn’t deserve it”; and “even if it was joke, he shouldn’t have said it.”
One commenter said: “It’s insulting, as if he isn’t Muslim and speaking like the Europeans.”
Some accepted that it was a joke, and others played down its message.
“If we take it from a positive perspective, even if he’s not joking, it’s a testament to our generosity,” said one user, @DMA87_.
Brazilian superstar Neymar is joining the former Saudi and Asian champions on a two-year deal for a whopping €150 million per season.
Neymar was unveiled to fans at Al-Hilal on Saturday as he became the latest world-famous footballer to sign for a club in the Saudi Pro League.
