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)

Al-Nassr's coaching staff received a huge morale boost with the confirmation that Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, the team's captain, has returned to group training as part of intensive preparations for the highly anticipated match against Al-Ittihad. This encounter is part of the 21st round of the Saudi Professional League and is scheduled to take place at Al-Ahli Stadium in Riyadh.

Cristiano Ronaldo is scheduled to join Al-Nassr's group training session on Wednesday, as the coaching staff works to fully prepare him both physically and technically to ensure his readiness for Friday's crucial match. Ronaldo's return is a key element in the team's plans to secure all three points at this critical juncture in the league season.

Cristiano Ronaldo had missed Al-Nassr’s previous match against Al-Riyadh in the league, with sources indicating that the reason for his absence was due to the Portuguese star’s anger over a decision related to the deals of the traditional rival, Al-Hilal, during the current winter transfer window, which sparked widespread controversy in sports circles at the time.

The importance of the Al-Nassr vs. Al-Ittihad derby and its impact on the league

The Al-Nassr vs. Al-Ittihad match holds immense strategic importance, transcending the mere three-pointer; it represents the Saudi Arabian "Clásico," attracting a massive local, regional, and international following. This encounter comes at a crucial juncture in the season, as Al-Nassr seeks to solidify its position in the standings and maintain pressure on the league leaders, amidst fierce competition that demands no points be dropped, especially in high-stakes matches.

From a technical standpoint, Ronaldo's presence is a significant asset to Al-Nassr's attack, not only because of his prolific goal-scoring ability but also because of his leadership on the pitch and his ability to motivate his teammates in high-profile, challenging matches. Analysts view this game as a true test of Al-Nassr's title aspirations this season, amidst the team's strong desire to continue their winning streak and deliver a performance worthy of the high expectations of their fans at Al-Ahli Park.

It is worth noting that the match will take place on Friday evening, amid great anticipation for the performance that the two teams will deliver, and in light of an expected tactical struggle, as Al-Nasr aspires to break any superiority of the competitors and continue to pursue the top spot held by Al-Hilal under the leadership of its coach Jesus, which makes winning the Clasico an urgent necessity for Al-Nasr.