Al-Nassr’s title return, Ronaldo’s impact and the Saudi Pro League landscape | OneFootball

Al-Nassr ended a seven-year wait by reclaiming the Saudi Pro League title in 2025/26 under Jorge Jesus, and Ange Postecoglou now leads the 2026/27 defence.

Goal.com notes that the competition was founded in 2007, with roots in the 1950s His Majesty's League. Across that full history, nine clubs have been champions. Since the rebrand, Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad have dominated, with 15 of the 18 titles going to Al-Hilal (8), Al-Nassr (4) and Al-Ittihad (3).

Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr and Al-Ahli draw over 60% of total attendances and usually attract the league’s biggest foreign stars.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s 2022 signing ranks as the SPL’s landmark capture, after he had previously rejected neighbours and rivals Al-Hilal. His arrival revolutionised Saudi football and paved the way for further elite recruits.

Riyadh hosts four Pro League clubs, Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Shabab and Al-Riyadh, so visitors often catch a game. With Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Aleksandar Mitrovic, Neymar, Jhon Duran and Darwin Nunez having played or still playing for Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr, demand is high.

Beyond the capital, Al Ittihad of Jeddah remain one of the biggest clubs in the country and in Asia, with Karim Benzema, Moussa Diaby and Fabinho among their stars.

The 2026/27 campaign includes a mid-season pause from 24 December 2026 to 7 February 2027, accommodating Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.

Source: Goal.com

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