The Saudi Pro League begins its new season on Thursday, with Cristiano Ronaldo set to extend his stay after signing a two-year contract extension at Al-Nassr. The 40-year-old's commitment comes as American investment enters the league for the first time, with the Harburg Group taking over newly promoted Al-Kholood.
Al-Kholood, based in the small city of Ar Rass, were privatised alongside two other clubs in July as part of a government strategy to attract foreign capital. The club finished ninth last season after promotion in 2024, aided by Comoros striker Myziane Maolida and Nigerian defender William Troost-Ekong. New owners have appointed English manager Des Buckingham, who previously won the Indian Super League with Mumbai City and led Oxford United to the Championship.
The title race this season is expected to be fiercely contested among five clubs. Defending champions Al-Ittihad, led by Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kanté, will face strong challenges from Al-Hilal, who have added Darwin Núñez to their attack under new coach Simone Inzaghi, and Al-Nassr, now managed by Jorge Jesus after his surprise return from Al-Hilal.
Ronaldo, who is 61 goals short of 1,000 in his career, will be supported by new signings Kingsley Coman and João Félix at Al-Nassr. Al-Ahli, despite a fifth-place domestic finish, won the Asian Champions League in May and boast striker Ivan Toney, who formed a strong partnership with Riyad Mahrez last season.
