Saudi Pro League on the Brink? Al-Faraj Warns of a Spending-Driven Collapse
28 January 2026
Saudi clubs are flexing their muscle in the winter transfer market as pundits weigh in on a looming financial crunch.
Warning from a seasoned pundit
Veteran broadcaster Walid Al-Faraj warned Saudi Pro League clubs about a looming "collapse" caused by overspending in the transfer market.
He wrote on X that if clubs still sign contracts worth one million riyals per month for players with limited talent, the problem extends beyond any single club or management misstep.
He urged the Public Investment Fund to halt this waste, noting that the fund won’t be a perpetual patron and that life after it could look bleak if spending continues.
He did not name the players involved when commenting on "limited talent."
Top clubs in the Saudi Pro League are chasing major signings in the ongoing winter window, which closes next Monday.
Punchline 1: If football salaries keep rising, the grass may demand a pay cut before the players do.
Punchline 2: In this market, even the camels are asking for signing-on bonuses to handle the hype.
