How are Saudis Shifting Football Center from Europe to the Middle East?
Football has, for many years, been limited to the European Football Clubs, with some popular Brazilian and American leagues making their way into the top list. But how does this justify 3.5 billion football fans? The whopping number of viewers is increasing, and so does the football industry.
It’s a billion-dollar industry valued at stupefying number 3.2 in 2022. It wouldn’t be wrong to call it another emerging economy.
Nevertheless, the world is changing, and so is the sport. The love has transformed into a significant contributor to the world GDP, thanks to fans supporting the merch from their famous soccer players’ jerseys.
For years it has been a source of passion, entertainment, and, let’s agree, business. That pretty much justifies the emergence of the Saudi Pro League as a significant player in the football world. But why?
The never-ending obsession with Sports & Money
Unlike other years, 2023 is the season of major transfers. And the major FCs opening these surprising transfers are none other than the Saudis. They have been shifting football talent from European to Middle Eastern football clubs.
Experts say the reason for this transformation is Saudi Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) substantial investments.
However, there are plenty of other reasons that are fueling this surge in high-profile player transfers, which is altering the overall dynamics of this sport.
- First, Saudis want to diversify their economy and change the oil-producing label from their country’s name.
- Second, Football is a lucrative global market, boosting revenue and tourism.
- Third, contribution to this industry will invite positive international exposure improving diplomatic relations with other countries.
Cristiano– The Ultimate Transfer in Football History
Everyone knows Saudi’s interest in turning football into their soft power goes beyond sports diplomacy and investments.
It’s the love for the sport.
And to invite a global audience to middle eastern fields.
For instance, Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr in December 2022 wasn’t meant to send shockwaves to the fans but to pool the talent in their clubs. The result? An astronomical uptick in the demand for Cristiano Ronaldo jerseys. And rightfully so!
The Portuguese footballer’s transfer began a new era for this sport. It’s a significant move that signals the league’s growing popularity and financial status.
Key Transfers in 2023 Every Football Fan Needs to Know
If you a hardcore Ronaldo fan with a Cristiano Ronaldo Jersey in your wardrobe, there’s no way you would want to miss the latest transfers in the list.
What began with the star player will continue to shape the future of football worldwide.
Here are key transfers that you need to keep note of–
Ruben Neves
Known as the most expensive transfer in the history of the Saudi Pro League, it belongs to none other than midfield master Neves. His move from Wolverhampton Wanderers to Al-Hilal was made to the news when Saudi FC announced the groundbreaking deal. The player is currently in his prime, and who knows, he’ll become the next face of the game.
Karim Benzema
Next on the list is Benzema, who’ll be joining the same club Ronaldo did, i.e., Al-Ittihad. And the French star isn’t alone. N’Golo Kante will be transferring with him as well. Whether Benzema’s decision to move after a long tenure of 14 years from Real Madrid was good or not depends on what lies ahead.
But one thing is sure, Saudi Pro League FC has got incredible players in their teams.
Kalidou Koulibaly
Like every player looking for new opportunities in the middle east, Koulibaly also switched from Chelsea to Al Hilal, signing a €23 million deal.
He’s a prominent name in soccer, so getting him will be worth every penny for the Al Hilal investors.
Jota
The most surprising was Jota’s move from Celtic to Al-Ittihad for €29.1 million because he had played remarkably well in the Scottish Premiership and the Champions League, which brings us to another example of the growing influence of the Saudi Pro League.
What Lies Ahead?
The influx of high-profile players, from experienced ones like Ronaldo to those in their peak like Jote to Saudi Arabian clubs, signifies a seismic shift in the football world. It goes without saying that the center of gravity is shifting from Europe to the Middle East.
Plus, the increasing financial influence of Saudi Arabia has further altered traditional notions of footballing powerhouses and has created a new narrative in the sport.
As this League continues to attract top talent, it’s changing the competitive landscape and redefining the relationship between sports, money, and global recognition. It’s time to see how this new chapter unfolds and changes how everyone watches football.
