Helder Costa has posted on Instagram after the out-on-loan Leeds United winger helped Al-Ittihad secure the Saudi Pro League title this weekend – pipping Cristiano Ronaldo’s side Al-Nassr to first place, with one game left to play.
Costa, 29, joined Al-Ittihad on loan last summer after a difficult spell on loan with Valencia last season. A few injuries have prevented Costa from enjoying a full-flowing season, but he has started 15 of Ittihad’s 29 league games so far.
But he did play 83 minutes on Saturday as Al-Ittihad secured a 3-0 away win over Al-Fayha. The win was enough to see his loan side secure their ninth Pro League title, and their first in 14 years – last winning the trophy back in 2009.
Indeed, Al-Ittihad beat Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr to the title. Ronaldo failed to help his side beat Ettifaq despite Ronaldo playing, drawing 1-1. It sees a five-point gap at the top of the table open up, with one game left. Costa, a champion.
Al-Ittihad have one game left before Costa has a decision to make. A decision that could depend on whether Leeds stay in the Premier League, or suffer relegation on Sunday afternoon. He took to Instagram to underline his delight.
Leeds winger Costa helps secure Saudi League title over Ronaldo
It is a grand achievement for Costa and co. Indeed, in terms of European football, Costa is the most-recognisable name in terms of playing staff. Marcelo Grohe is a 36-year-old Brazilian goalkeeper, with two senior Selecao caps.
Ronaldo’s side not only have the legendary Portugal captain, but 41-time Brazil star Luis Gustavo, ex-Arsenal man David Opsina between the sticks and Talisca. But Costa and manager Nuno Espirito Santo have secured the title.
For Costa, his future is up in the air. Joining Leeds in the summer of 2020 following promotion, he still has a year left on his contract. In the event of relegation, there may be scope to keep Costa – given his Championship experience.
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