Saudi domestic football has drawn significant attention due to an influx of elite foreign players into the top-flight Pro League. However, this trend has made it harder for homegrown talents to secure playing time, raising concerns about the national team's depth ahead of the World Cup.
Homegrown Players Struggle for Game Time
While some local players have thrived since the investment in the Pro League, the standout performers are predominantly high-profile international stars. Saudi football journalist Mo Fayad expressed pessimism on the Make Football Great Again podcast, stating, "At this stage there is a whole bout of pessimism surrounding the team, and one of the reasons is that Saudi players aren't actually getting that much game time."
Chaotic Build-Up and Managerial Changes
The team's preparation has been turbulent, with legendary manager Herve Renard dismissed just 59 days before the tournament during his second stint. His replacement, former Blackburn and Sheffield United midfielder Georgios Donis, is well-versed in Saudi football, having managed six local clubs. However, his appointment has divided opinion. Mo argued, "I think there should have been a local manager. There needs to be a belief from the federations in these managers."
Key Players to Watch
Captain Salem Al-Dawsari, who scored the winner against Argentina in the 2022 World Cup, will lead the squad. Wing-back Saud Abdulhamid, the only player based outside Saudi Arabia, has impressed for Ligue 1 side Lens with two goals and four assists in 14 starts. His energy and crossing ability will be vital for the Arabian Falcons.
Goal-Scoring Concerns
Despite Abdulhamid's deliveries, Saudi fans worry about finishing. "It's not going to be a team that scores many goals, and that strikes fear into Saudi fans," Mo said. Striker Faris Al-Buraikan, who scored five goals in 16 starts for Al-Ahli, is expected to lead the line. He previously played under Donis during his breakout season at Al-Fateh.
Other Talents
Al-Ettifaq winger Khalid Al-Ghannam, the top-scoring Saudi player in the Pro League last season with 13 goals, is a fan favorite. "He's put in the work and he's really been fantastic. Saudi fans say he has to start for us," Mo noted. Midfielder Musab Al-Juwayr, who moved from Al-Hilal to Al-Qadsiah for £10m, has also performed well, helping his team finish fourth in the Pro League under Brendan Rodgers.
World Cup Prospects
Expectations are low for Saudi Arabia, who are in Group H with former winners Spain and Uruguay, as well as debutants Cape Verde. "The expectation is three points against Cape Verde and by luck get through to the next round from the third placed position," Mo said. "Some people will ask... Saudi Arabia beat Argentina in 2022, can they beat Spain in 2026? Saudi fans will be the first to tell you that will not happen."
