Chaos in the Saudi Pro League: The Power of Star Players
The Saudi Pro League (SPL) has garnered attention for its impressive players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema. However, as these stars begin to assert their influence beyond the pitch, the league faces significant challenges.
Recent Matches and Title Race
On a hectic Monday in the SPL, Al-Hilal managed a draw against Al-Ahli, while Al-Nassr secured a victory, remaining just a point away from the leaders. With Brendan Rodgers at Al-Qadsiah, the title race is heating up, with just over a third of the season left to play.
Ronaldo’s Discontent
While Sadio Mané scored for Al-Nassr, the spotlight shifted to Ronaldo, the league’s star player, who was reportedly on strike. The 40-year-old’s dissatisfaction stems from a lack of investment in his club during the transfer window, despite his impressive salary of around £490,000 per day.
Status of Al-Nassr and Transfers
Al-Nassr, funded by the Public Investment Fund, has not matched the transfer activity of its rivals, notably Al-Hilal, which has made significant signings. This has left Ronaldo frustrated, particularly as he is still searching for his first major trophy in Saudi Arabia.
The Impact of Benzema
Karim Benzema, once a critical player for Al-Ittihad, has since moved to Al-Hilal. The situation around his departure raised questions, as it was speculated that Ronaldo’s strike might be an effort to halt this transfer. The PIF’s interest in keeping high-profile players in the league is evident.
Concerns About Player Influence
The dynamics of the league are shifting, with players like Ronaldo and Benzema wielding immense power. This raises concerns regarding the influence of star players on club decisions, potentially eclipsing the authority of the clubs themselves.
The League’s Dilemma
With experts like Sami Al-Jaber highlighting the issue, the SPL faces a crisis of leadership. It must determine whether the control lies with the Public Investment Fund, the league administration, the clubs, or the star players themselves, as the current situation appears unsustainable.
