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Hakimi Most Expensive Arab Star in World Cup; Somali Referee; Raphinha & Saudi
Augustus Media FZ LLC
June 10, 2026
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This week is packed with major World Cup buzz, big Arab football names, and some serious Saudi transfer talk. From Hakimi leading the region’s most valuable stars, to Omar Artan’s World Cup heartbreak, and Raphinha being linked with a massive Saudi move, here’s what’s making headlines.
Hakimi Leads The Arab Stars Ranked By World Cup 2026 Transfer Value
What Is It About
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off this week with a record 48 teams, including eight Arab nations. With the region strongly represented, The National ranked the top 20 Arab players at the tournament by transfer value, using Transfermarkt data. Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi leads the list at €80 million, followed by Egypt’s Omar Marmoush and Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi, both valued at €50 million.
Why It Matters
Arab football is entering the tournament with major momentum after Morocco’s historic semi-final run at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. That success helped raise the global profile of players from the Middle East and North Africa, especially those competing in Europe’s top leagues. Moroccan players dominate the rankings, showing how the country’s football rise is translating into serious market value.
What’s Next
With the World Cup now beginning, all eyes will be on whether Arab teams can build on the region’s 2022 success. Players like Hakimi, Marmoush, Bouaddi, Ibrahim Maza and Ismael Saibari will be key names to watch as Arab nations look to make a deeper impact on the world stage and prove their value beyond the transfer market.
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Somali Referee’s World Cup Dream Ends After US Entry Denial
What Is It About
Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan says his World Cup dream was taken away after he was denied entry into the United States despite having valid travel documents and a visa. Artan, who was named Africa’s best men’s referee in 2025, said he was questioned for more than 11 hours at Miami International Airport before being detained and sent back to Turkey.
Why It Matters
Artan was set to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a World Cup, making his appointment a major milestone for Somali football. FIFA has since removed him from its referee roster, meaning he will no longer train or officiate at the tournament. Somali officials and fans have expressed sadness and frustration over the decision.
What’s Next
The Somali Football Federation says it is working with FIFA and relevant authorities to understand why Artan was denied entry. US officials said the decision was linked to vetting and national security concerns, while Artan maintains he had the correct documents. For now, his historic World Cup opportunity has officially come to an end.
Saudi Clubs Reportedly Prepare Massive Offer For Barcelona’s Raphinha
What Is It About
Saudi giants Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal are reportedly showing interest in Barcelona winger Raphinha, with clubs said to be willing to offer around €80 million for the Brazilian. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Saudi sides are also prepared to offer him four times his current salary at Barca as they continue targeting major global football names.
Why It Matters
Raphinha has been linked with Saudi clubs several times before, but he has repeatedly shown commitment to Barcelona. Still, the reported offer shows how serious Saudi football remains about attracting elite talent from Europe’s biggest clubs. A move for a player of his level would be another major statement for the Saudi Pro League.
What’s Next
For now, Raphinha’s future remains uncertain, with Barcelona still holding a key role in any potential decision. If Saudi clubs return with a strong formal offer, the transfer could become one of the biggest stories of the summer window, especially with both Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal looking to strengthen their squads.
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