Saudi Arabia striker heading to Manchester United for training

Saudi Arabia striker Mohammad Al-Sahlawi will get up to speed for the World Cup by training with Manchester United.

The 31-year-old frontman is set to spend three weeks at Old Trafford training with Jose Mourinho’s first-team squad.

The opportunity is understood to be tied to a commercial deal signed earlier this season.

United and the General Sports Authority (GSA) of Saudi Arabia signed a strategic partnership – a deal aimed at helping the Saudi body to develop its football industry as part of its “2030 Vision” initiative.

Al-Sahlawi has scored an impressive 26 goals in 33 appearances for his country, but he was criticised by the chairmen of the (GSA) of Saudi Arabia Turki Al-Sheikh after the recent defeat by Belgium for a “decline” in his performance.

Juan Antonio Pizzi’s Saudi Arabia side were beaten 4-0 by Belgium on Tuesday and afterwards Al-Sheikh revealed Al-Sahlawi was heading to Old Trafford.

“It was agreed with Manchester United for Mohammed Al-Sahlawi to join for a training programme for three weeks,” Al-Sheikh’s post read. “May God benefit him.”

Saudi Arabia will kick off the World Cup against Russia in the opening game of Group A.