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Al-Ittihad secured a 4-2 win over Al-Fateh without injured captain Karim Benzema, thanks to Steven Bergwijn’s decisive brace. Since joining, Bergwijn has been pivotal in key matches, including the Saudi El Clasico and title-clinching games. Al-Ittihad’s strong start continues as they prepare for AFC Champions League action, showcasing depth and resilience in their title defense.

Al-Ittihad will face Al-Fateh in the Saudi Pro League. The match is scheduled for September 12, 2025. Al-Ittihad won their first match, while Al-Fateh lost. Karim Benzema is a key player for Al-Ittihad. Al-Fateh will likely use a counter-attacking strategy. Al-Ittihad has a strong home record against Al-Fateh. Experts predict Al-Ittihad will win this match.

The Saudi Pro League’s foreign player rule, introduced in 2023 and active since the 2024-25 season, allows clubs to register 10 non-Saudi players, with two slots reserved for under-21 talent, and field up to nine on matchdays under specific criteria. The regulation reflects a strategic pivot: balancing international star power with youth investment and long-term squad planning.

Bruno Fernandes has firmly rejected multiple transfer offers from Saudi clubs, including a personal approach from Cristiano Ronaldo, choosing to stay at Manchester United through the 2025/26 season. Meanwhile, Ronaldo, now influential at Al-Nassr, continues to push for signings like Mason Greenwood and João Félix as the Saudi transfer window extends to September 23, aiming to strengthen the squad and chase silverware.

While Europe's transfer doors slammed shut on September 1, Saudi Arabia's window stays wide open until September 23. This calculated lag lets Saudi clubs poach sidelined or surplus European talent with zero competition. It’s not just about money anymore, it’s about timing, leverage, and changing the script on how the global market plays out post-deadline.

Cristiano Ronaldo is spearheading Al-Nassr’s late push to sign Marseille’s Mason Greenwood before the Saudi transfer window closes on September 11. With Greenwood in top form and Ronaldo committed to ending Al-Nassr’s trophy drought, the move could reshape both their legacies. Greenwood’s arrival would bolster Al-Nassr’s attack and underline Saudi football’s rising global ambitions.

The Saudi Pro League has become a global football powerhouse, luring top talent with record-breaking contracts and royal-level perks. Led by Cristiano Ronaldo’s $240M deal, players like Mahrez, Benzema, and Mané have redefined the league’s prestige. With stars in their prime joining, Saudi Arabia is reshaping football’s future, challenging Europe’s dominance and turning the desert into football’s new frontier.

Cristiano Ronaldo has urged Al-Nassr supporters to rally behind the team as they begin their Saudi Pro League season, aiming to surpass last year's third-place finish. The Portuguese star, entering his third season with the club, seeks his first trophy with Al-Nassr. He recently lost the Saudi Super Cup final.