Mark Clattenburg Quits Premier League For Saudi Arabian Post
Mark Clattenburg [/caption]
Mark Clattenburg will leave the English Premier League to take up a role with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has announced.
The official, widely regarded as one of the finest in world football is expected to leave his role before the next round of Premier League fixtures on 25 February.
In a statement the PGMOL said Clattenburg has been “a great asset” and “an inspiration to those who want to get into refereeing”.
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“The PGMOL would like to wish Mark Clattenburg well as he prepares for his move to the Saudi Arabian Football Federation,” the statement said.
“Since joining the PGMO Select Group in 204, Mark developed into one of our top officials, refereeing at the highest level and setting standards for others to follow.
“Mark is a talented referee, he has been a great asset to the English game and hopefully an inspiration to those who want to get into refereeing at the grass roots of the game.
“We understand this is an exciting opportunity for Mark as well as further underlining what high esteem English match officials are held throughout the world game.”
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The 41-year-old is expected to replace former Premier League referee Howard Webb, who moved to become head of refereeing at the Saudi Arabian Football Federation in 2015.
Clatternburg took charge of the Euro 2016 final, the Champions League final and the FA Cup final last season.
He began his coaching career as a 25-year-old in 2000, and was promoted to the Premier League’s Select Group four years later.
