Lazio Star Declines Fake €30M Offer From Saudi Arabia

Lazio winger Mattia Zaccagni was one of 50 contacted as part of an experiment into Italian footballers, being one of the few to decline a lucrative ‘offer’ from Saudi Arabia.

The 28-year-old Italian forward has been one of the most important players in the Biancocelesti squad since his initial arrival from Hellas Verona in 2021 and his strong performances have continued this season, even amidst the club’s poor form.

Zaccagni grew frustrated waiting for a new contract but finally put pen to paper on a long-term deal with Lazio last month, tying him to the club to June 2029. This term, he’s netted six goals and provided one assist across 32 games.

As highlighted by LazioNews24, satirical show La Iene carried out an experiment on 50 Italian footballers, contacting them to apparently offer a contract with a Saudi Arabian club worth €30 million net per season.

Only 12% declined the proposal, with Zaccagni on that list. He responded to the fake intermediary clearly, saying: “No look, I’m fine, I’m happy like this for now”.