Football enthusiasts around the globe are eagerly preparing for the kickoff of the historic and exceptional Saudi Pro League, featuring a formidable array of elite stars who have graced the major European stadiums and leagues, notably the English Premier League.
The championship’s proceedings commence with a match between the rising stars Al-Ahli and Al-Hazm at the Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Stadium in Jeddah, marking the honor of inaugurating the 49th edition of the tournament.
This time, the scene will be markedly distinct as global icons grace the Saudi football pitches, following an era initiated by Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, the captain of Al-Nassr, back in January of the previous year.
The journey ahead will not be facile for Al-Ittihad Club, the reigning champion of the Saudi Pro League, who aspires to retain their title amidst robust ambitions from their fierce runner-up, Al-Nassr.
The challenge also extends to Al-Hilal, the club with the most league titles to its name, along with Al-Ahli, making a triumphant return to the league after a year in the lower division, before swiftly reclaiming their position among the elite.
The realm of competition will not be limited to the quartet whose ownership has transitioned by 75% to the Public Investment Fund (PIF). Instead, an opportune moment arises for Al-Shabab team to contend with the quartet for the championship title.
The market value of the Saudi Pro League has surged to an unprecedented historical milestone, reaching a staggering 780 million euros according to “Transfermarkt.”
This summer, it has witnessed a remarkable 26% increase from its previous value, distancing itself from its closest Asian competitors by nearly 500 million euros. Following closely behind is the UAE Pro League, with an aggregate value of 287 million euros.
It is worth noting that Al-Ahli is striving to embark on an exceptional season following its swift return to the ranks of the Saudi Pro League after an unprecedented relegation in its history.
Bolstered by heavyweight acquisitions, and with an attacking line bolstered by talent from the English Premier League, the team is poised to make significant strides against all adversaries, starting with Al-Hazm.
As for Al-Ittihad, it has bolstered its ranks with the addition of French star Karim Benzema, arriving from Spanish club Real Madrid, to lead the club's offensive line. The team also boasts Moroccan international Abdelrazzak Hamdallah, and joining them is fellow countryman N'Golo Kante, making the switch from English club Chelsea.
They are joined by Portuguese talent Joao Felix from Benfica and Brazilian Fabino, who arrives from English club Liverpool.
