Mitrovic Absent in Pre-Season Friendly Amidst Transfer Speculations and Training Concerns

 Mitrovic Absent in Pre-Season Friendly Amidst Transfer Speculations and Training Concerns

Mitrovic Absent in Pre-Season Friendly Amidst Transfer(Image-Getty)

Fulham's manager, Marco Silva, made it clear that Aleksandar Mitrovic, the talented striker, will not be featuring in their upcoming pre-season friendly against Brentford. The reason for his absence from the squad is attributed to the Serbian player's lack of proper training and dedication. This decision comes amidst reports that the London club had turned down a significant £25 million bid from Saudi Arabian team Al Hilal for the 28-year-old forward, who still has three years remaining on his current contract.

Mitrovic has consistently proven himself as Fulham's top scorer in four out of the last five seasons, and in the 2022-23 campaign, he showcased his prowess by netting 14 goals in the Premier League, contributing to the team's impressive 10th-place finish.

Addressing the situation, manager Marco Silva confirmed that he had already spoken to Mitrovic regarding the matter. However, he emphasized that the situation is beyond his control, expressing his disappointment with the striker's current approach to training and collaboration with his teammates. Silva revealed that Mitrovic did not play in the previous game last Wednesday, and he will also be absent from the upcoming friendly match in Philadelphia.

The manager clarified that the issue is not solely related to the offer Mitrovic received from Al Hilal, but rather concerns his personal conduct and commitment to the team. While Silva is troubled by the situation, he acknowledged that individual players have to take responsibility for their actions and decisions.

Interestingly, Silva also disclosed that he, too, had received an offer from Al Ahli, another Saudi Arabian club, but he refrained from discussing his own situation in depth. He reiterated his unwavering commitment to Fulham, stating that he had demonstrated his loyalty to the club numerous times throughout the previous season.

In conclusion, the absence of Aleksandar Mitrovic from the pre-season friendly against Brentford is due to concerns about his inadequate training and lack of proper commitment to the team. Fulham's rejection of the substantial bid from Al Hilal suggests the club's desire to retain their prolific striker, who has consistently been their top scorer in recent seasons. Marco Silva's dedication to Fulham is unwavering despite receiving an offer from Al Ahli, further emphasizing his commitment to the London club.