Ed Aarons: Saudi Pro League Set Sights on Liverpool Duo | OneFootball

Exploring the Saudi Pro League’s Ambitious Moves: Big Names in the Frame

The Saudi Pro League’s thirst for the global football stage is far from being quenched, as evidenced by its relentless pursuit of high-profile Premier League players such as Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Alisson. According to a recent article for The Guardian by Ed Aarons, the Saudi clubs are not just aiming to enhance their league’s profile but are also striving to escalate its competitive edge by drawing in more private business sponsorships.

Star-Studded Targets and Strategic Moves

The Saudi Pro League, trailing only behind the Premier League in the 2023 summer transfer spending spree, illustrates its ambitions clearly through its aggressive recruitment strategy. With nearly £750m spent and around 100 overseas players brought in, their intent is loud and clear. Not all ventures have borne fruit, as Jordan Henderson’s premature return from Al-Ettifaq reveals, yet the optimism remains. The league’s officials are reportedly confident of their allure to top-tier European talents.

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Mohamed Salah, previously the subject of a whopping £150m bid from Al-Ittihad which Liverpool declined, remains an “obvious target.” Meanwhile, Liverpool’s Brazilian goalkeeper, Alisson, also finds himself in the crosshairs of several Saudi clubs, underscoring the league’s high ambitions. The inclusion of other Premier League stars like Manchester United’s Casemiro and Raphaël Varane in recent transfer speculations further highlights the league’s aggressive targeting strategy.

Challenges and Promises in the Desert

Transitioning to a new league, especially one that is culturally and geographically different, poses significant challenges. The former Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte voiced concerns over some players being “discontented” in the Saudi Pro League following his move. However, the league is making strategic infrastructural investments, like opening luxury resorts on the Red Sea, to make the locale more appealing to international stars.

The quota increase for foreign players reflects another strategic move to raise the competitive bar, allowing clubs to sign more overseas talent while also nurturing young prospects.

Looking Ahead: A Vision of Growth and Development

The Saudi Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) takeover of teams such as Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, Al-Nassr, and Al-Hilal is part of a broader strategy to catapult the domestic league into the global top 10. This ambition is backed by significant investments, including a partnership with the state-owned oil giant Aramco and other government-linked entities.

The change in Saudi Arabia’s Code of Law Practice, which encourages foreign businesses to set up locally, aims to boost investment in smaller clubs, potentially elevating the league’s overall standard and appeal. “It is important that the Saudi Pro League offers a real test to any players who come here and to do that we must improve the overall standards,” a league source was quoted in The Guardian.

Conclusion: A Rising Force in World Football?

As the Saudi Pro League continues to evolve, the world watches closely. The potential influx of stars like Salah and Alisson could significantly boost the league’s global profile, making it a formidable force in international football. The strategic investments and legal adjustments suggest a well-thought-out plan aiming not just for short-term gains but for sustainable growth. As Ed Aarons effectively captures in his article, the unfolding story of the Saudi Pro League is one of ambition, challenge, and promise—an enticing saga for any football aficionado.