Yasser Al-Misehal, president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, has put an end to the debate circulating in sporting circles regarding the possibility of changing the number of foreign players in the Saudi Professional League during the upcoming 2026/2027 season. Al-Misehal's statements effectively quelled the recent rumors about reducing or increasing the current number.

Al-Musahal's statements regarding the foreigners file

Al-Mishal stated in a press conference on Tuesday: "The issue of the number of foreign players is subject to a thorough and ongoing annual review, and as of now, there is no decision to change the current number." The federation president explained that there is continuous coordination and regular meetings with officials from the Professional League Association to assess the technical, financial, and marketing impact of any potential changes to the regulations.

Al-Musahal added, emphasizing the basic criterion for any future decision: “Any study that is completed and proves that it is in the interest of Saudi football in general, and the national team in particular, will be announced and adopted immediately, but until now the situation continues as it is and there is no change in the number of foreign players.”.

The current system for foreign players in the Roshan League

According to current regulations, each club in the Saudi Professional League (SPL) is entitled to register 10 foreign players on its official roster, provided that two of them are born in 2004 or later, to ensure investment in young talent. The rules stipulate that only 8 foreign players may participate in a single matchday squad, except in the King's Cup and the Saudi Super Cup, where the full quota is permitted. For the SPL (First Division), the maximum is 4 foreign players, while the Second Division allows 3.

Historical background and development of the Saudi League

Saudi football has witnessed an unprecedented qualitative leap in recent years, with the Saudi League transforming into a global destination attracting top football stars. The number of foreign players has gradually increased over the years, from four to seven, then to eight, culminating in the current system that allows for the registration of ten players. This progression aligns with the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to position the Saudi League among the top ten leagues in the world in terms of market value, technical quality, and fan base.

The balance between the strength of the league and the national team's interests

Al-Musahal's statements underscore the Saudi Football Federation's commitment to striking a delicate balance between enhancing the league's competitiveness by attracting international stars and preserving the identity and strength of the Saudi national team. While the increased number of foreign players has undoubtedly contributed to raising the level of competition, developing infrastructure, and providing valuable experience for local players, the Federation prioritizes providing Saudi players with playing time to ensure the national team's readiness for upcoming international competitions, particularly the World Cup qualifiers and Asian Cup tournaments. This explains the Federation's consistent emphasis that any changes are contingent upon the best interests of the national team.

The twentieth round of the Roshan Professional League witnessed dramatic shifts in the battle for the top spot, as “Al-Midan Al-Riyadi” reviews the new ranking of clubs after a series of exciting results that reshaped the map of competition for the title in this exceptional season.

Al-Hilal stumbles, Al-Nassr gets closer

In the highlight match of the round, the highly anticipated derby between Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli, played at the Kingdom Arena, ended in a goalless draw. Despite attacking efforts from both sides, solid defenses were the defining characteristic of the match, with each team settling for a single point. This draw was not merely a fleeting result; it had a direct impact on the top of the table, allowing the chasing teams to close the gap and increasing the pressure on the league leaders in the upcoming rounds.

Meanwhile, in Riyadh, Al-Nassr capitalized on their neighbor and traditional rival's stumble, securing a hard-fought and valuable 1-0 victory over Al-Riyadh. The winning goal came courtesy of Senegalese star Sadio Mane at Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium (Al-Malaz). This win not only earned Al-Nassr three points but also narrowed the gap with league leaders Al-Hilal to a single point, promising a fiercely competitive end to the season.

The Golden Square battle and surprises

Looking at the league table, the competition is no longer limited to just the two giants. Al-Ahli continues to apply pressure with 44 points, while Al-Qadisiyah is having a historic season, occupying fourth place with 43 points, just a hair's breadth away from the top three, turning the race into a fierce four-way battle. Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad is struggling this season, currently sitting in sixth place with 34 points, far from the direct title contenders.

Roshan League standings after round 20

Here are the full details of the club standings, points totals, and matches played:

• 1. Al-Hilal: Played 19 - Won 14 - Drew 5 - Lost 0 - (47 points)
• 2. Al-Nasr: Played 19 - Won 15 - Drew 1 - Lost 3 - (46 points)
• 3. Al Ahly: Played 19 - Won 13 - Drew 5 - Lost 1 - (44 points)
• 4. Al-Qadisiyah: Played 19 - Won 13 - Drew 4 - Lost 2 - (43 points)
• 5. Cooperation: Played 19 - Won 12 - Drew 2 - Lost 4 - (38 points)
• 6. Al-Ittihad: Played 19 - Won 10 - Drew 4 - Lost 5 - (34 points)
• 7. Al-Ittifaq: Played 19 - Won 9 - Drew 5 - Lost 5 - (32 points)
• 8. Al-Khaleej: Played 19 - Won 8 - Drew 4 - Lost 7 - (28 points)
• 9. Neom: Played 19 - Won 7 - Drew 3 - Lost 9 - (24 points)
• 10. Al-Fateh: Played 19 - Won 6 - Drew 5 - Lost 8 - (23 points)
• 11. Al-Hazm: Played 19 - Won 5 - Drew 6 - Lost 8 - (21 points)
• 12. Al-Fayha: Played 19 - Won 5 - Drew 5 - Lost 9 - (20 points)
• 13. Al Shabab: Played 19 - Won 4 - Drew 7 - Lost 8 - (19 points)
• 14. Al-Kholoud: Played 19 - Won 5 - Drew 1 - Lost 13 - (16 points)
• 15. Al-Akhdoud: Played 19 - Won 3 - Drew 3 - Lost 13 - (12 points)
• 16. Riyadh: Played 19 - Won 2 - Drew 6 - Lost 11 - (12 points)
• 17. Damac: Played 19 - Won 1 - Drew 9 - Lost 9 - (12 points)
• 18. Al-Najma: Played 19 - Won 0 - Drew 5 - Lost 14 - (5 points)

All eyes in Saudi football are on Al-Nassr's home ground, Al-Ahli Park, as the club prepares to welcome back its captain and Portuguese star, Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo is scheduled to return to team training as part of intensive preparations for the highly anticipated match against Al-Ittihad. This return comes at a crucial time, just before the clash between the two giants in the 21st round of the Saudi Professional League.

Madeira's rocket is scheduled to participate in Al-Nassr's group training session tomorrow, Wednesday, thus declaring his full readiness to lead the team's attack in the upcoming derby match. This match is considered one of the most important milestones in the team's league campaign, as Al-Nassr seeks to capitalize on home advantage and the support of their fans at Al-Ahli Park to secure the three points.

Cristiano Ronaldo had missed Al-Nassr's previous match against Al-Riyadh in the same competition, a game that sparked considerable controversy. According to sources, the Portuguese star's absence wasn't solely due to physical reasons, but also stemmed from his anger over certain decisions regarding Al-Hilal's transfer dealings during the current winter transfer window, which added a layer of tension to the rivalry.

The importance of the Al-Nassr vs. Al-Ittihad classic

The Al-Nassr vs. Al-Ittihad match holds immense strategic and historical significance. It's not just an ordinary league fixture; it's a "classic" encounter between the two giants of Riyadh and Jeddah. This clash comes at a time when Saudi football is experiencing tremendous growth and unprecedented global attention, making Ronaldo's return to the game an event eagerly anticipated by millions worldwide, not just local fans.

The impact of Ronaldo's return on the team

Cristiano Ronaldo's return to training represents a huge morale and tactical boost for Al-Nassr. The player is not only a formidable scoring force, but also the leader upon whom the coach and players rely in crucial matches to unlock the defenses of strong opponents like Al-Ittihad. Al-Nassr enters the match aiming to continue their winning streak and close the gap in the title race. The game will take place next Friday evening, with expectations of a massive crowd filling the stands of Al-Ahli Park to support the team in this important football encounter.