Birth Clause Showdown in Saudi Football: The Federation Ends Hilal vs Nassr Saga

Birth Clause Battle Resolved by Saudi FA

The Saudi Football Federation has ended the debate over whether the birth clause would be altered during the upcoming winter transfer window, amid the ongoing dispute between Al Hilal and Al Nassr.

Some reports had claimed changes favored by clubs like Al Hilal, triggering objections from Al Nassr, who insisted no clause changes mid-season.

The federation published an official statement on X confirming that the birth clause would be modified, but starting with the 2026-2027 season.

In the statement, the board, led by Yasser Al-Mishal, said the discussions were held at the federation's Riyadh headquarters to review several agenda items.

The board reportedly approved a recommendation from the General Secretariat to allow foreign players under 21 registered with Roshen Pro League clubs to participate without requiring all foreigners to stay for the next season, provided the registration remains valid.

The decision will take effect from the next sports season 2026–2027, giving clubs time to plan and stabilize their squads.

Notably, Al Hilal has faced a constraint on foreign players, having to register Brazilian striker Marcus Leonardo among the eight foreign slots rather than under-21 status, due to older regulations.

The old rules stated that no change could be made to any of the ten foreign players to preserve under-21 players, until the players aged out; this clause was amended.

Hilal reportedly had to drop its Portuguese winger Joao Cancelo from the domestic list to register Marcus Leonardo, before deciding to bring him back in the winter window, though the exact replacement is yet to be settled.

The report notes the ongoing rule adjustments are aimed at stabilizing clubs while keeping competition fair.

Punchline 1: The birth clause is tighter than a goalkeeper's gloves; good luck finding a loophole.

Punchline 2: In transfers, age is just a number—until the price tag shows up and reminds you it is a limited edition.