Daichi Kamada has revealed his parents played a decisive role in convincing him to reject a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia before signing a new contract with Crystal Palace.
The Japan international recently extended his stay at Selhurst Park by one year, despite receiving interest from elsewhere, admitting he seriously considered leaving English football before ultimately committing his future to the Eagles.
Saudi offer made Kamada rethink his future
Speaking in a documentary produced by TV Asahi, Kamada admitted he received an offer from the Saudi Pro League last winter and initially viewed it as a possible opportunity to wind down his career.
"Up until last winter, I was actually thinking about going to Saudi Arabia. I did get an offer and was thinking about winding down my career."
However, after discussing the proposal with his parents, the midfielder changed his mind.
"It involved a huge sum of money, so I expected them to be pleased, but that wasn't the case at all."
Their reaction ultimately persuaded Kamada to continue competing at the highest level.
Palace extension offers flexibility
Kamada revealed Crystal Palace gave him time to explore his options before agreeing to a one-year contract extension.
The 30-year-old believes the short-term deal suits both parties while leaving the door open for a future move to one of Europe's elite clubs.
"I've always dreamed, ever since I was a kid, of challenging myself at a big club if the opportunity arose."
He admitted no suitable opportunity materialised this summer, making a stay at Palace the best option.
Champions League dream remains alive
Although happy in south London, Kamada made it clear he still harbours ambitions of playing for one of Europe's biggest clubs.
He suggested only a handful of teams would represent a clear step up from Crystal Palace.
"If you look for a team better than Palace, the options are extremely limited."
The midfielder also highlighted Palace's recent success, with the club preparing for a historic Europa League campaign after winning the Conference League last season.
Alongside the footballing project, Kamada cited his family's happiness in London as another major factor behind his decision.
Key Points
- Daichi Kamada rejected a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia.
- His parents played a major role in persuading him to stay in Europe.
- The Japan international has signed a one-year contract extension with Crystal Palace.
- Kamada still hopes to one day join one of Europe's elite clubs.
- He says his family are settled in London and Palace's ambitions convinced him to remain.
What's Next?
Kamada is expected to play a key role for Crystal Palace this season as the Eagles prepare for their first-ever Europa League campaign. The one-year extension also leaves the midfielder with flexibility to reassess his future next summer should an opportunity at one of Europe's top clubs arise.
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