Josep Guardiola: "Saudi Arabia is not a threat but a reality"

Manchester City coach Josep Guardiola, assessing Riyad Marez's departure to Al Ahli, has highlighted the impact of Saudi Arabian clubs on the transfer market.

"Saudi Arabia has changed the transfer market. When Ronaldo was the first to go there, few thought that so many players would follow him. And there will be more and more from here on.

Marez received an incredible offer and we couldn't refuse him. Saudi Arabia is not a threat, but a reality. They want to create a strong championship and so far it looks like they will succeed," Guardiola said.