Sadio Mane makes Saudi Pro League stance clear amid links to ex-Liverpool teammate Mohamed Salah

Liverpool hero Sadio Mane has been singing the praises of the Saudi Pro League, describing its current level as "impressive" while reflecting on his bond with ex-teammate Gini Wijnaldum.

Mane's journey took him to Al-Nassr in the Middle East for his second season after a less-than-joyful year at Bayern Munich, following his departure from Liverpool in 2022.

The Senegalese star is among several former Reds who've ventured to Saudi Arabi with Wijnaldum, Roberto Firmino, and Fabinho all playing there. Meanwhile, Steven Gerrard is managing Al Ettifaq, which was also a temporary home for Jordan Henderson before his move to Ajax.

Rumours persist about Mohamed Salah potentially joining the high-profile league, with the possibility of a free transfer at the end of the season still on the table.

Mane is adamant about the league's ongoing progress, noting that while Al-Hilal continues to dominate, having not lost a game last season and leading the pack this season too, the overall standard is on the rise.

"You can see it, the level is impressive now," he observed. "I'd even say it's been since last year, but especially this year, too, as every team has strengthened in level."

He believes this uptick in quality is a boon for the league, fostering greater competitiveness and delivering what fans crave, thus benefiting the entire championship.

Wijnaldum, who teamed up with Gerrard at Al-Ettifaq last year, shared five seasons at Anfield with Mane, both having signed on in the summer of 2016.

Mane opened up about his bond with Wijnaldum, saying: "Gini is one of my very good friends. And (with) Gini, it's more than football, because our relationship came naturally. Because, when I was in Liverpool, we came at the same time, and he is this kind of person that once he is in the team he becomes friends with everybody. Everybody likes him."

"He is special, and this is the reason when I was there we've been good friends - and he was always in my house. Sometimes he would call me to come to my house, and I'm like 'No, not yet. Get out of here!

"He always wants to make fun, and I like this about him. He has a good heart; I can speak about him until tomorrow non-stop. He is amazing and we're still keeping contact. And that's really important."