The league has spent a total of $957m (£710m) since 2023, with the aim of lifting the standard of Saudi Arabian football, not just the clubs. However, the league still struggles to supply talent to Europe, with only Saud Abdulhamid of Lens playing overseas. Locals are often squeezed out by foreign talents, especially in creative, goalscoring, and goalkeeping positions.
Al-Hilal, sold by the Public Investment Fund in April, still have a strong squad with players like Karim Benzema, Rúben Neves, and Kalidou Koulibaly. The pressure is now on coach Simone Inzaghi to retake the title from Al-Nassr, who won the league title last season. Al-Nassr's new head coach Ange Postecoglou will be looking to push on from last season's success, but the club has financial issues that have limited their incomings.
Al-Ahli won their second successive continental title in April, and the Saudi Pro League season kicks off on Thursday. It remains to be seen if Crysencio Summerville can make an impact at Al-Hilal, and if the league's efforts to sign younger players with resale value will pay off.