Dybala reportedly opted to stay for the love of his Argentine wife, who loves Rome.
The 30-year-old ex Juve Argentina World Cup winner said Thursday night he would stay at AS Roma after all.
Italian media said he gave up the huge Saudi signing on fee because his wife, 28-year-old Argentine model, actress and singer Oriana Sabatini, is so attached to life in Rome.
Other reports said he had declined the offer out of love for the Giallorossi.
Many observers said it was like a story from the past when players were more loyal to their clubs than to the pursuit of money.
‘The Jewel’ Dybala, who scored 82 goals in 210 Juve appearances from 2015 to 2022 and has netted 25 times in 54 matches for the Giallorossi since then.
“Thank you Roma, see you on Sunday (against Empoli),” he posted to social media.
Dybala’s recent career has been dogged by injury.
He made only two cameo appearances in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup campaign, scoring in the final shootout win against France and was left out of the squad for this year’s victorious Copa America.
Roma reportedly rejected a bid that was adjudged too low from Al-Qadsiah, who were promoted to the Saudi Pro League in May.
“[It’s an] exciting situation, full of ups and downs,” De Rossi said, at a press conference ahead of the Empoli game Sunday.
“His choice, we saw what reaction it provoked.
“The enthusiasm would have been there anyway, and in him they now see someone who made a decision based on the fans’ love for him and the team.
“These decisions are also the result of the love that exists in this city.
“It’s a beautiful story, not often seen in the world of football, and the fans should be proud.”
ANSA
