The anticipation of stars like Ronaldo joining the Saudi Pro League was meant to elevate the league’s status, but the journey has been far from smooth. While much attention has been given to off-field factors like transfer fees and commercial potential, the on-field impact has been overlooked. In reality, not all star players thrive after moving to a West Asian country…

not all-star players thrive after moving to a West Asian country

Benzema and Al-Ittihad: A Clash of Visions

A striking example is the clash between Benzema and coach Nuno Espirito Santo at Al-Ittihad. The Frenchman has yet to find the net since joining the reigning Saudi Pro League champions. Troubles in the dressing room add to the turmoil.

Benzema reportedly asked for the captain’s armband upon arriving, but Nuno declined, keeping it with Brazilian striker Romarinho. This discord could lead to an unfavorable outcome. Benzema is rumored to be “uncomfortable” at Al-Ittihad and considering a departure. This unfolds amid growing uncertainty.

Benzema is rumored to be “uncomfortable” at Al-Ittihad

A recent report by Saudi Arabia’s Al-Sharq Al-Awsat newspaper cited disputes over foreign player registration at the club. Injured former West Brom defender Ahmed Hegazi seeks full contract payment if he leaves Al-Ittihad.

Then there’s the baffling case of Jota, a £25m acquisition from Celtic in July, likely departing within weeks. While reasons remain undisclosed, it illustrates Al-Ittihad’s chaos – far from what Benzema envisaged.

Ronaldo’s Rocky Start

Struggles in the Saudi Pro League aren’t confined to new recruits. Even superstar Ronaldo faced a challenging beginning to the season. Post their Arab Club Champions Cup triumph, Al-Nassr’s performance nosedived. With Ronaldo sidelined, a shocking defeat to Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq marked the league’s opening.

Their fortunes didn’t improve against Al-Taawoun the following week. A sidelined Ronaldo led to another disappointing loss. Though a win over Shabab Al-Ahli in the AFC Champions League offers hope, it can’t fully reassure Al-Nassr fans.

superstar Ronaldo faced a challenging beginning to the season

What’s the Issue? Both the Premier League and Saudi Pro League teams face tight schedules. Al-Nassr coach Luis Castro voiced his frustration after just 48 hours between the Arab Club Champions Cup final and facing Al-Ettifaq. “I don’t know how to play on Monday, it’s impossible. We played extra time in the final tonight. We have to respect the players,” said Al-Nassr’s head coach.

Clearly, Saudi Arabia’s league isn’t a “vacation” for Ronaldo and other luminaries. Additionally, adapting to the hot climate in the West Asian country adds to their challenges.

And What About Neymar…?

All these issues raise alarms for Neymar, Al-Hilal’s newcomer.

The laid-back lifestyle and substantial pay could potentially overshadow Neymar’s career

While Neymar is a star, he’s no stranger to controversy. Navigating the complexities of the Saudi Pro League introduces more unpredictability. The laid-back lifestyle and substantial pay could potentially overshadow Neymar’s career in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia isn’t the breeze Neymar and others might have imagined for their league experience.