One thing is now absolutely certain in the world of Albanian football: Mario Mitaj will leave Al Ittihad and Saudi Arabia. The future destination of the Albania national team defender remains undecided, but all indications suggest that his next step will take place in one of Europe’s top leagues, marking a major milestone not only for his personal career but also for Albanian football as a whole.
At just 22 years old, Mario Mitaj has already built an impressive international journey. After gaining experience in Greece, developing further in Russia, and testing himself in the financially powerful Saudi Pro League, the time has come for what many experts are calling “the big leap” in his career. According to recent transfer rumors, Mitaj is now firmly on the radar of elite European clubs, with La Liga and the Premier League emerging as the most realistic destinations.
Official Confirmation: European Offers on the Table
The transfer rumors gained serious credibility after confirmation from the sporting director of Al Ittihad, who openly stated that his desk currently holds official offers from both La Liga and the Premier League. This statement immediately ignited interest among media outlets in Spain and England, who quickly began uncovering the names of clubs interested in the Albanian left-back.
For Albanian fans, this is not just another transfer story. It represents a continuation of a growing trend: Albanian players increasingly attracting attention from Europe’s biggest leagues, proving that the national team’s rise in recent years is no coincidence.
Atletico Madrid: A Sensational La Liga Option
Perhaps the most eye-catching revelation comes from Spanish media, where reports suggest that Atletico Madrid are seriously monitoring Mario Mitaj’s situation. The club led by Diego “Cholo” Simeone is known for its defensive discipline, tactical intensity, and ability to turn young players into elite competitors.
According to sources close to La Liga, Mitaj could represent a January transfer bargain for Atletico Madrid. His versatility, physical strength, and tactical awareness fit perfectly with Simeone’s demanding system. For an Albanian defender to be linked with a club of Atletico’s stature is, without exaggeration, historic.
However, such a move also carries undeniable risks. Atletico Madrid is a club defined by fierce internal competition, where every position is contested by experienced international players. While the stage is enormous, earning consistent playing time would require patience, adaptability, and exceptional performances.
Still, from a symbolic and developmental perspective, joining Atletico Madrid would elevate Mitaj into an entirely new category of footballer and significantly boost the global image of Albanian footballers abroad.
Premier League Interest: Sunderland Enters the Race
While Spain offers glamour and tactical prestige, English media reveal an alternative path: a move to the Premier League, with Sunderland reportedly submitting an offer for Mitaj’s services.
Although Sunderland may not carry the global brand of Atletico Madrid, it remains a historic English club competing in one of the most physically demanding football environments in the world. Playing in England would offer Mitaj regular exposure, high match intensity, and invaluable experience in a league known for developing strong defenders.
Interestingly, Sunderland is captained by Granit Xhaka, another iconic figure of Albanian football. This connection adds emotional and symbolic value to the potential transfer, creating a bridge between generations of Albanian internationals competing at a high level.
From a career-planning perspective, Sunderland could represent a more stable and gradual progression, allowing Mitaj to adapt to elite football without the overwhelming pressure associated with a Champions League contender.
A Defining Moment for Mario Mitaj and Albania
Regardless of whether Mitaj chooses Atletico Madrid or the Premier League, one fact remains unchanged: this transfer will define the next phase of his career. At 22, he stands at a crossroads where the right decision could shape his trajectory for the next decade.
For Albania, Mitaj’s rise is another confirmation that the national team is producing players capable of competing at the highest level. His development directly strengthens the backbone of the Albania national team defense, especially ahead of upcoming international competitions.
After experiences across multiple football cultures, Mitaj now possesses maturity beyond his age. Europe is calling, and this time, not as a prospect—but as a ready-made international defender.
As the January transfer window approaches, Albanian fans will be watching closely. Wherever Mario Mitaj lands, his journey symbolizes ambition, growth, and the expanding footprint of Albanian football on the European stage.