In a statement reflecting the high level of sportsmanship and fierce competition in the Saudi Professional League, Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly, a rock at Al-Hilal, praised the significant impact of French striker Karim Benzema, star of Al-Ittihad, on Saudi football. Koulibaly explained that having players of Benzema's caliber not only benefits their teams but also elevates the overall quality of the competition, pushing all clubs, including Al-Hilal, to perform at their best.
Speaking to the media, Koulibaly said: “Benzema is a legendary player, and I’ve spoken with him before. Having players of his experience and quality in the league gives everyone extra motivation to shine and perform at a world-class level.” He added: “This strong competition helps us a lot at Al-Hilal to maintain our focus and improve our performance in every match. Facing players like him is a real challenge.”.
Background of the Stars' Revolution in Saudi Stadiums
Koulibaly's comments come amidst the historic transformation the Saudi Professional League has undergone since the summer of 2023. Following the transfer of Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo to Al-Nassr, a wave of international signings opened the floodgates, reshaping the competition. With the support of the Public Investment Fund, major clubs attracted a host of global football stars, including Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema, who joined Al-Ittihad; Neymar Jr., who moved to Al-Hilal; Sadio Mane, who joined Al-Nassr; and many others, making the Saudi League a focus of global attention.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
The presence of stars like Koulibaly and Benzema at rival clubs like Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad fuels one of the fiercest football rivalries in the region, known as the "Saudi Clasico." This rivalry's impact extends beyond the local level, boosting fan attendance and media coverage, reaching regional and international dimensions.
Regionally, this strong presence enhances the standing of Saudi clubs in Asian tournaments, such as the AFC Champions League. Internationally, the Roshan League has successfully attracted global broadcasters, and its matches are now broadcast in dozens of countries, contributing to the promotion of the Kingdom as a global sporting destination, a key objective of Saudi Vision 2030. Statements from players like Koulibaly confirm that the positive impact extends beyond immediate results to include building a professional and sustainable football environment.
