There’s been talk of English referees considering a permanent move to Saudi Arabia. For example, Michael Oliver was reported to be in discussions earlier this season. The ambitious recruitment efforts of the league seem to extend beyond players and managers.
However, this situation has left Keith Hackett, the former referees’ chief, feeling conflicted. Referees have contracts with their employers, and would need permission to make such a move, implying that it has likely been sanctioned. The financial incentives in Saudi Arabia are substantial, especially in comparison to what referees typically earn.
Hackett suggests that the opportunity to support themselves and their families could be a driving factor for referees considering such a move. He questions why referees shouldn’t be allowed to pursue this opportunity, given the significant financial benefits. One individual with a strong opinion on the matter is a Middlesbrough fan, who had been scheduled to referee the League Cup final before his club won the trophy.
He expressed that if he had been given the chance, he would have considered taking the opportunity to earn money in Saudi Arabia. He mentioned that such opportunities were not available during his time as a referee and jokingly commented about the financial gains he could have made.
