The Saudi Pro League is about to take a new step. Since the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo in January 2023, the championship has become one of the most followed in the world, regularly attracting international stars and multiplying colossal investments. “We are already in the world top 5”even said the fivefold Ballon d'Or at the end of June after its extension with Al Nassr.
In this dynamic, the Saudi League is now preparing to modify a key rule that could still speed up its rise in power. According to several local sources, including the journalist influence Khalid Alshenaif, the SPL plans to increase the number of foreign players authorized by team, without any age restriction.
A boost to international recruitment
So far, Saudi clubs could align eight non -Asian foreign players, with a bonus of two additional players under 23 years old. From now on, they will be able to play eight on the ground, plus two others on the bench, without age limit. The measure aims to strengthen the attractiveness of the championship and to facilitate the arrival of new international stars.
This new rule comes as the transfer window in Saudi Arabia opens on July 20 and ends on September 10. Several major transfers are already in preparation, with players like Théo Hernandez who has signed up with Al Hilal, Mateo Retaui courted by Al Qadsiah, or even Alexandre Lacazette, Marcin Bulka and Said Benrahma recently engaged by the promoted ambitious Neom SC.
Historical clubs like Al Ahli, Al Nassr, Al Hilal or Al Ittihad, already rich in international talents such as Riyad Mahrez, Sadio Mané, Franck Kessié or Karim Benzema, will now be able to adjust their staff without constraint of nationality or age. By raising these barriers, the SPL opens the door to ever more attractive contracts, thus strengthening its ability to compete with the largest European championships.
