Real Sociedad star firmly rejects Saudi interest

The Japanese forward, who left his homeland in 2019 to join Real Madrid’s youth academy, is widely regarded as one of the most exciting and technically gifted attackers in La Liga.

Over the past few seasons, Takefusa Kubo has evolved from a promising young talent into a key player for Real Sociedad, establishing himself as one of the league’s standout performers. His ability to take on defenders, his close control in tight spaces, and his sharp decision-making have made him a crucial asset for the Basque club.

Despite his relatively young age, Kubo has already gained a wealth of experience in European football. After moving to Spain as a teenager, he spent time on loan at clubs like Mallorca, Villarreal, and Getafe before finally settling at Real Sociedad, where he has flourished. His performances have caught the attention of top European clubs, and his €60 million release clause reflects his growing reputation. For a player of his caliber, that price tag does not seem excessive especially in today’s inflated transfer market, where clubs are willing to spend huge sums for creative and versatile attackers.

In an interview with L'Équipe, Kubo discussed his future ambitions and, in particular, the recent offer he received from Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Pro League, backed by significant financial resources, has been aggressively targeting top European talent in recent years, luring high-profile players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Neymar with lucrative contracts. However, Kubo made it clear that he has no intention of joining the growing list of stars making the move to the Middle East.

"I received an offer, but I wasn’t interested," Kubo stated bluntly. "I love good football, not football that revolves around money. Since I was young, playing against the best players has been my motivation."

His statement highlights a clear distinction in his priorities. While some players, particularly those nearing the end of their careers, may find the financial incentives of the Saudi league irresistible, Kubo remains focused on competing at the highest level. His passion for the game and his desire to improve as a player take precedence over any monetary benefits he could receive by making the move.

The Saudi Pro League has made significant investments in an effort to raise the standard of football in the country, but Kubo believes that the league is still far from reaching a level that would tempt him to leave European football. "If the Saudi league one day becomes the best league in the world, then I will consider going," he explained. "Right now, it is only financially appealing, only about money. I want to stay at this level, in one of the best leagues in the world. That is my dream. I don’t dream about money. If I did, I would have already been playing in Saudi Arabia."

This strong stance further underlines his commitment to his career ambitions. Kubo’s primary focus is on continuing to develop and competing against the best in La Liga and beyond. With Real Sociedad currently performing well domestically and in European competitions, he has the perfect platform to showcase his abilities against top opposition on a regular basis.

His refusal to be swayed by financial incentives also sends a powerful message about his character and mentality. Unlike some players who might see a move to Saudi Arabia as an easy payday, Kubo is determined to carve out a legacy in European football. He is still only 23 years old, and many believe that he has not yet reached his full potential.

With his technical skills, quick feet, and ability to change games with moments of brilliance, Kubo has drawn comparisons to some of the most creative attackers in world football. Real Sociedad fans have embraced him as one of their key players, and there is a strong belief that he could become one of the best Japanese players of all time if he continues on this trajectory.

The Japanese international has also become an important figure for his national team, playing a vital role in their attacking setup. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Kubo is expected to be a key player for Japan, leading their charge on the international stage. His decision to stay in Europe and continue challenging himself against elite-level competition will only benefit his development and his contributions to the national team.

His words also reflect a deeper sentiment among younger players who prioritize the competitive nature of top European leagues over the financial lure of emerging leagues like Saudi Arabia. While the Gulf nation may continue attracting veteran superstars looking for a final big contract, the likes of Kubo represent a generation of ambitious players who are not ready to step away from the highest level of competition.

For now, Kubo’s focus remains entirely on Real Sociedad and his aspirations in Spain. With his performances continuing to attract attention, it wouldn’t be surprising to see top clubs from Europe’s elite leagues such as the Premier League, Bundesliga, or Serie A express interest in signing him in the future. However, one thing is clear: his next move will be dictated by footballing ambition, not financial incentives.

Kubo’s rejection of Saudi interest serves as a testament to his dedication and determination. As he continues to impress in La Liga, he is proving that his decision to stay in Spain is not just about resisting lucrative offers but about cementing his place among the best in the world. If he maintains this level of performance, the sky is the limit for the Japanese star.