Saudi Influence in the Premier League: A Balanced Perspective
The Saudi Pro League, often seen as a retirement earner for notable footballers, may have a more significant impact than initially anticipated. While it may currently lack the glamour and prestige of European competitions, it has the potential to bite chunks out of successful leagues such as the Premier League. The Saudis have shown their ruthless nature in luring star golfers away from the PGA Tour, as demonstrated by the success of their LIV Golf series. In just three years, they have managed to attract top players like Jon Rahm, Paul Casey, and Brooks Koepka.
The funding for these ambitious ventures comes from the Public Investment Fund, a sovereign wealth fund that recently acquired 80% of Newcastle United. With such financial backing, it is clear that the Saudis are serious about their foray into the world of sports. While persuading the Saudi population to watch aging football stars may not be an easy task, progress is expected to accelerate rapidly.
Although attendance figures in the Saudi Pro League remain relatively low, averaging around 8,000 per game, there has been a steady increase. The all-time highest attendance stands at an impressive 59,600. It is evident that the oil barons behind this project are not ones to back down easily, making it likely that their involvement in soccer will continue for the foreseeable future.
Compared to China’s failed bid to take over major clubs in the UK, the Saudi influence seems more sustainable. Out of the four clubs that were initially part of the Chinese takeover, three have already withdrawn. The only remaining club, Wolverhampton Wanderers, has managed to maintain stability. This suggests that the retirement plan for players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Fabinho, and Karim Benzema, who are drawn to the lucrative offers in Saudi Arabia, will continue to attract other international stars.
One player who made the move from Europe to Saudi Arabia is Ruben Neves. The former Wolves captain chose to join Al-Hilal for a transfer fee of £47 million. This move not only helped his former club’s Financial Fair Play figures but also provided Neves with an opportunity to earn an impressive £300,000 per week. Neves believes that the Saudi Pro League has the potential to become one of the most important leagues in the world within two years. He praises the quality of players arriving in Saudi Arabia and likens the league to a “PlayStation championship” where teams can choose players as they wish.
Saudi Arabia’s ambition in football goes beyond just the domestic league. The country is on track to host the 2034 World Cup and has already secured the staging of the Italian and Spanish Super Cups. Additionally, Saudi Arabia hosts a range of top sports events, including track-and-field athletics, tennis, and horse racing, such as the prestigious £16 million Saudi Cup. A major football league would be a significant accomplishment for Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is driving Saudi Arabia’s advancement into the modern era.
While some may view the Saudi influence as a threat, it is important to recognize the benefits it brings. The Saudi Pro League offers excellent pay for players and provides good conditions for spectators. Furthermore, it has opened up opportunities for women to participate both as spectators and players. Football in Saudi Arabia has the potential to reach places no other sport can and will continue to attract top talent and larger crowds. As the league grows, it poses a growing challenge to the wealth and attraction of leagues like the Premier League.
In conclusion, the Saudi Pro League’s influence in football should not be underestimated. While it may currently lack the same level of prestige as European competitions, it has the financial backing and ambition to become a major player in the world of football. With their ability to attract top talent, increase attendance figures, and host prestigious events, the Saudi Pro League poses a significant challenge to established leagues like the Premier League. However, it also brings benefits such as excellent pay for players and increased opportunities for women in the sport. The future of Saudi influence in football looks promising, and it will be interesting to see how it unfolds in the coming years.