Pavel Nedved, the former Juventus executive and Ballon d’Or winner, is poised for a fresh start in his career. Reports suggest that the Czech football legend is close to reaching an agreement with Saudi Arabian club Al-Shabab, where he is expected to take on the role of CEO.
According to sources, Nedved will work closely with another football icon, Fatih Terim, who is set to become the new head coach of Al-Shabab following Vitor Pereira’s departure to Wolverhampton Wanderers. This partnership between two experienced figures in European football signals Al-Shabab’s ambition to elevate their status in the Saudi Pro League.
Nedved’s tenure as Juventus’ vice president from October 23, 2015, was marked by unprecedented success, with the club securing nine consecutive Serie A titles. However, his time at the Turin giants came to an end on November 28, 2022, when he resigned amid a sports trial that implicated him along with other executives and former president Andrea Agnelli. While initially banned for 8 months by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), Nedved was later acquitted on May 22, 2023.
At a recent charity event, Nedved reportedly confirmed his future plans, stating, “I have two offers, one in the Czech Republic and another abroad.” A source close to the situation elaborated, “Pavel will officially assume the position of sporting director of the club on January 1, 2025. They would prefer to have him there tomorrow. They are absolutely thrilled about his arrival.”