The former Sunderland captain has ended his second tenure at Wigan Athletic

Former Sunderland captain Max Power is reportedly set to join Saudi Arabian second-tier side Al-Qadsiah FC after turning down a new deal with Wigan Athletic. Wigan Today claim Power has agreed terms with the Saudi Arabian outfit, who’re said to be on the brink of unveiling former Liverpool and Leeds United forward Robbie Fowler as their new boss.

Power spent the last two seasons with the Latics after leaving Sunderland following the expiration of his contract. He’d go on to win promotion back to the Championship under Leam Richardson but was part of the Wigan side that was relegated back to League One and endured a year from hell after mismanagement off the field.

The 29-year-old is said to have turned down a new deal at Shaun Maloney’s side this summer and various offers in the Championship, as he looks for a new chapter in the Middle East.

In a statement posted on his Twitter account, Power said: “Thanks to everyone who has supported me over two spells at this great club. After what was a very difficult season both on and off the pitch I’ve decided that a fresh start was best for both parties.

“I leave the club amicably and on good terms. Players come and go but the club will always remain, and up until a few weeks ago, that looked at risk. I’m delighted Mike Danson has bought the club for the many great staff members who work tirelessly behind the scenes, especially the staff at the academy.

“My son plays in the academy and I’ve seen firsthand how much good work goes on down there, producing players like Langy, Theo, and more recently Charlie Hughes. The importance of the takeover cannot be taken for granted and I hope lessons are learned so you as a fanbase can continue to support the club you love.

“The team will need your support more than ever this season and it will be important the young lads coming into the team/squad are given as much help and support along the way.

“I wish Shaun and his staff all the best for the season, and especially the players, many of whom I’ve made great relationships with over the last two years. Once a ‘tic, Mac.”

Power made 137 appearances in a red and white shirt between 2018 and 2021 and was part of Lee Johnson’s side that ended their Wembley hoodoo and won the Papa John’s Trophy.