The Saudi Pro League is seeking to reduce its reliance on ageing superstar signings and instead improve the wider standard of Saudi football, though Cristiano Ronaldo remains central to its profile. His possible achievement of 1,000 career goals this season could dominate attention, even as clubs pursue younger overseas players with potential resale value.

The league spent $957m (£710m) in 2023, boosting global interest, broadcasting deals and Saudi clubs’ competitiveness in Asia, but the national team has not yet seen a clear benefit. Only one player in Saudi Arabia’s 26-man World Cup squad plays abroad, while domestic players can struggle for minutes because foreign players occupy key attacking and goalkeeping roles. Al-Hilal’s €80m (£68m) signing of 24-year-old Crysencio Summerville illustrates the newer strategy, while a move for 34-year-old Mohamed Salah appears to have lost momentum.