The massive spending spree that captured headlines around the world in 2023 may not have materialised this summer, but there is a familiar feel to the Saudi Pro League as the season kicks off on Thursday. Most of the big names are still there; coaches are under pressure before it begins; Al-Hilal are the team to beat; Cristiano Ronaldo is looking annoyed in the colours of Al-Nassr and, once again, pundits are saying that even the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is not bigger than the club.
Ronaldo broke the league record last season with 35 goals, as well as making other headlines, and was last seen at the weekend leaving the pitch as his teammates prepared to collect their runners-up medals in the Saudi Super Cup final. Ronaldo had given Al-Nassr the lead but then watched in growing exasperation as Al-Hilal, the reigning champions, came back to win 4-1. The 39-year-old’s wait for a first trophy since arriving in Riyadh almost two years ago (the Arab Club Champions Cup really does not count) continues.
