The Athletic FC: Daily Football Insights
The Athletic FC serves as a daily newsletter focused on football, providing the latest news and insights directly to fans’ inboxes. Today, we delve into the burgeoning landscape of Saudi Arabian football, now on the verge of welcoming foreign investors.
Al Hilal’s Remarkable Journey
The stage is set for a remarkable change following Al Hilal’s impressive showing at the Club World Cup, where they reached the quarter-finals and eliminated the formidable Manchester City.
Al Hilal’s success is not just a product of luck; it embodies a well-constructed team that includes notable players like Ruben Neves, Joao Cancelo, and Kalidou Koulibaly, alongside a coach of great pedigree, Simone Inzaghi, who recently guided Inter Milan to the Champions League final. This significant investment marks the transformation of the Saudi Pro League into a competitive entity, prompting a reevaluation of its role in the global football narrative.
Criticism of the league as a mere vanity project fails to recognize the concrete steps taken in establishing a talented squad. This undertaking has been underpinned by the Saudi state’s Public Investment Fund, which assumed majority ownership of several clubs, including Al Hilal and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, two years ago.
Future of the Saudi Pro League
Dubai’s Pro League is set for further evolution, as discussions emerge to allow the first foreign ownership of a franchise, paving the way for a more privatized league model. This shift suggests a future where most clubs operate independently, promoting sustained growth rather than one-off successes.
Despite skepticism surrounding the league—especially regarding global perceptions of Saudi Arabia and its involvement in sportswashing—the reality is that the Saudi football scene has entrenched itself at the forefront of international football, making it increasingly difficult to ignore. The momentum of the Pro League appears sustainable, and as it engages with traditional football markets, like Spain and Italy, the external interest in Saudi football is likely to grow.
On the domestic front, the Pro League is assuming greater responsibility for its clubs’ financial operations, a move that indicates both maturity and caution in spending. The Public Investment Fund is now emphasizing the necessity for financial returns and sustainable practices, curbing past extravagance in player acquisitions.
FIFA’s Endorsement and Future Prospects
Additionally, FIFA’s endorsement of Saudi football—culminating in the host nation being awarded the 2034 World Cup—has sparked critical views, such as those from former FIFA president Sepp Blatter. However, the governing body appears impervious to such criticism, while Saudi Arabia secures support from FIFA, positioning itself favorably compared to other leagues like Major League Soccer.
Women’s Euro 2025 Highlights
In a different sports development, the recent Women’s Euro 2025 quarter-final clash between England and Sweden delivered a roller-coaster penalty shootout, showcasing both the highs and lows of competitive drama. England’s Lucy Bronze became pivotal in the shift of momentum, their historic resilience shining through as the team rallied to equalize from a two-goal deficit.
Meanwhile, Sweden’s goalkeeper Jennifer Falk was in the spotlight, saving multiple penalties before inadvertently sealing her side’s fate with an unfortunate miss.
Burnley F.C. and Broader Football Investments
In other news, Burnley F.C. is embarking on a captivating venture within sports documentaries, partnering with X (formerly Twitter) for a compelling series that aims to engage fans in real-time reactions and narratives. This initiative could significantly amplify their global presence, an essential step for a club in a highly competitive environment.
Amidst all of this, notable figures like Snoop Dogg are also making headlines by investing in Swansea City, suggesting a diversifying interest in football in Wales, highlighted by Gareth Bale’s interest in Cardiff City, underlining the broadening appeal of football investments.
Upcoming Matches
Fans can anticipate some exciting matchups this week as the Women’s European Championship continues with Spain vs Switzerland and France vs Germany, plus thrilling MLS fixtures like New York Red Bulls facing Inter Miami and LA Galaxy clashing with LAFC.
As developments unfold, it’s evident that changes in football culture and investment patterns are reshaping the game.
