Saudi Arabia: New Flagship Of Global Football
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has been undergoing significant changes and development. The desert land has positioned itself to be a new footballing powerhouse. Drawing inspiration from Qatar’s successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup, Saudi aims to replicate that achievement altering how the world views the Arab nation, football journalist, Mpho Mutloane said.
Ever since Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo made his move to Saudi Pro League, one after another, big names in the world of football are already heading to the land of oil and Muslim piety.
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These changes are geared towards making Saudi Arabia an attractive destination for international footballers, foreign investment, and bringing in expertise.
The football clubs have spent a seemingly irrational amount of money in the 2023 summer transfer window to sign a number of world-class football players.
When the Saudi Pro League was kicked off in 2023, nearly half a billion dollars lured top players and coaches from traditional European powerhouses. And the number of the clubs too was increased from 16 to 18.
The kingdom’s eye-watering salaries are that have lured celebrity players, rising stars, and top coaches.
The goal for Saudi football is ambitious yet clear- to be among the top 10 leagues globally within the coming years. This aspiration is not rhetoric; it is backed by significant investment and a vision to elevate the sport’s standard domestically while captivating global audiences.
The arrival of football stars has undoubtedly raised the league’s quality and competitiveness, making it more attractive while captivating global audiences.
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What came as an advantage for the country is that unlike the Premier League and other European teams, Saudi clubs are not bound by UEFA’s rules on spending, meaning there is no limit to the salaries the Public Investment Fund (PIF)can offer to lure the top players to the Middle East.
Sports will be one of the pillars of the government’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plan that seeks to build new industries and create jobs.
