Former RC Lens and Chelsea defender Malang Sarr (27) is reported to have been physically attacked by unknown assailants during Neom SC’s summer pre-season training camp, according to L’Équipe.

Whilst in Marbella to prepare for the 2026-27 season with his new club, the Senegalese player was allegedly targeted by several individuals during an evening out in late July. The assailants, who were French, are said to have entered the premises of the Elba Estepona Gran Hotel & Thalasso Spa, dragged the 27-year-old player out of the dining room – which had been reserved exclusively for the club’s stay – and taken him to the hotel’s bar.

Vehement, the attackers are said to have even slapped Sarr during the climb. A version of events contradicted by the defender, but confirmed by some witnesses. At the heart of the matter lies the transfer of the Nice-born player, signed by Neom under a lucrative contract, the total value of which is said to be around €15m.

Approached by several agents to negotiate the deal, Sarr ultimately decided to sign the contract himself. However, whilst the player appeared alongside an agent appointed by his new club in his introductory photo, one of the interested representatives, particularly keen on the Saudi commission, is said to have taken offence at the situation, feeling cheated out of the deal. The latter then sent some of his associates to Sarr’s location a few hours later.

However, in the face of pressure, Sarr reportedly refused to pay any compensation to anyone, and was eventually released by his visitors, warned by the arrival of the police, who have launched an investigation.