Discussions are said to be taking place between the Saudi Arabian FA and UEFA in relation to Saudi clubs entering the Champions League.
Talks between the two powerful organisations are reportedly taking place on the possibility of some Saudi Pro League clubs playing in Europe.
The idea is one which on the surface sounds completely ludicrous, however seemingly due to the number of high-level players moving, it could happen.
Following Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to move to Al-Nassr, various big names have also made the move, including Karim Benzema and Neymar.
With all these expensive players arriving, UEFA are likely concerned over the allure of the Champions League with so many big names now gone from Europe, including Lionel Messi who joined Inter Miami.
Saudi Pro League clubs in the Champions League
Logically speaking, this shouldn’t happen, given Saudi Arabia isn’t within UEFA’s jurisdiction, but rather the AFC.
But due to the rest of the clubs in the Asian Champions League not having the resources of Saudi, it could make for some easy tournaments.
Therefore according to Calcio Finanza, the Saudi FA have been ‘in talks’ with UEFA over taking a Champions League place from 2025.
It is added that this wouldn’t impact their standing in the Asian Champions League nor the annual Arab Cup which Al-Nassr won last week.
Rather they would prefer the winners of the Saudi Pro League each year to enter the illustrious UEFA Champions League as a ‘wildcard’.
This makes it more likely that if they were to switch confederations, which would also impact the National Team.
Could they actually join the Champions League?
If you asked this question a year ago, the answer would be a clear and obvious no which would be clear.
But now following how rapidly the Saudi Pro League has developed, nothing would be surprising to us anymore.
This agreement while potentially still unlikely, would be a massive boost for the clubs involved, such as Al-Nassr.
With prize money and the eyes on the Champions League substantial in comparison to any other competition.
It would go a long way in helping Al-Nassr to become self-sufficient financially.
