Neom's Dream Hit by a Reality Check Before the Al-Nassr Showdown
25 October 2025
Rock of Defense
Neom has taken a heavy blow ahead of facing Al-Nassr and earlier Al-Kholood in the Roshen Saudi Pro League's next two matchdays.
In its debut season among the top tier, Neom is chasing positive results, especially in big clashes with experienced clubs, but a key player will miss.
According to Asharq Al-Awsat, Neom will miss Egyptian center-back Ahmed Hegazi, the defense's captain.
Hegazi suffered a hamstring injury during the Neom vs Al-Khaleed match that ended 1-1.
Neom will miss Hegazi in the two forthcoming matches, on Thursday 30 October and Saturday 8 November.
He represents a solid defensive anchor for Neom’s bid to secure a high finish, though the team currently sits fifth on 10 points and trails Gulf and Al-Ittihad on goal difference.
The road ahead includes crucial fixtures against Al-Kholood and Al-Nassr on dates that could define their early season.
Origin and Transformation
Founded in 1965 in Tabuk as The Falcons Club, the team transformed when NEOM bought it in 2023, becoming the sports arm of NEOM's ambitious project, with a logo inspired by the region's fresh vision.
This shift wasn't merely a name and logo; it was followed by aggressive investment aimed at placing the club among the giants.
In 2024-2025, Neom won the First Division and earned promotion, signaling the birth of a new power in Saudi football.
The club has also drawn a plan to blend global experience with promising young talent under the guidance of coach Christophe Galtier.
Notable signings included French striker Alexandre Lacazette, Polish goalkeeper Marcin Bulka and Algerian winger Said Benrahma.
Neom also pursued under-21 foreign talents outside the usual quota, landing Nathan Zezi and Amadou Koné to build for the future.
Total expenditure on these deals reached around 80 million euros in the summer window, positioning Neom as a real challenger to the four giants.
Ambitions and Competition
Ambitions: Neom entered the 2025-2026 season with a baseline aim to avoid relegation, but the resources suggest bigger targets.
Management wants the club among Saudi Arabia's elite and to compete for continental spots within a few years, disrupting the league balance and challenging the traditional giants.
Overall, Neom is not just a rising club but a holistic sports project aiming to be a sustainable and influential power in the future of football in Saudi Arabia.
Punchline: If ambition were a transfer, Neom just bought it with a plan, a budget, and a very optimistic trainer.
Punchline 2: And if they manage to pull this off, the only thing heavier than their payroll will be the applause when the project finally lands a continental slot.
