The winter transfer window for the 2023-2024 Saudi Professional League season has closed, a period characterized by relative calm compared to the historic summer transfer window that saw the arrival of international stars. The major clubs, most notably Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli, focused on making well-considered strategic adjustments to strengthen their squads in preparation for the crucial second half of the season and continental competitions.
Transfer market background: From a tumultuous summer to a quiet winter
The winter transfer window followed an exceptional summer that transformed Saudi football, with Public Investment Fund (PIF) clubs spending vast sums to acquire big names like Neymar, Karim Benzema, Sadio Mane, and Riyad Mahrez. Therefore, the winter transfer window was expected to be a period for assessing the impact, addressing identified weaknesses, and focusing on stability rather than big-money signings. Clubs acted according to their pressing technical needs, while also considering the regulations regarding the number of foreign players, which imposed careful decisions on their coaching staff.
Al-Hilal: Reinforcing defense to maintain dominance
Al-Hilal, comfortably leading the league, continued its shrewd transfer policy. Following the ACL injury to its Brazilian star Neymar Jr., the club utilized the available foreign player slot to strengthen the left-back position. The most notable signing was Brazilian full-back Renan Lodi from Olympique Marseille, a move aimed at adding depth and international experience to the back line. This acquisition underscores Al-Hilal's ambition to compete strongly for all possible titles, both domestically and in Asia, by building a well-rounded team with no obvious weaknesses.
Victory: Temporary solutions and a focus on stability
Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal's direct rival, adopted a more conservative approach. The club focused its efforts on addressing specific defensive weaknesses. They secured a significant signing, acquiring Australian left-back Aziz Behich on loan from Melbourne City to bolster their squad. The roster also saw the return of veteran Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina after recovering from a long-term injury, providing another reliable option in goal. Meanwhile, the club allowed Ivorian midfielder Seko Fofana to join Al-Ettifaq on loan to give him more playing time.
Union: A local revolution to address the decline
Al-Ittihad, the reigning champions, were the most active in the domestic transfer market, attempting to rectify a team that had suffered a decline in results. Following the return of Egyptian defender Ahmed Hegazi from injury, the club bolstered its ranks with several prominent local players, including Saad Al-Mousa , Fawaz Al-Saqour , Hamed Al-Ghamdi , and Ahmed Al-Ghamdi . These signings aim to increase the depth and quality of the squad, especially given the significant challenges the team faces in the league and the AFC Champions League. Despite rumors surrounding the future of their star player Karim Benzema, the French striker remained with the team, leaving the future uncertain as to his ability to lead the team in the coming period.
Al Ahly: Stability and confidence in the current squad
Al Ahly, making a strong return to the top flight, opted to maintain complete stability in its squad. The club refrained from making any high-profile signings during the winter transfer window, expressing its confidence in the current group of foreign and local players assembled during the summer. This approach reflects the technical staff's belief that the team possesses the necessary tools to compete for top positions and achieve its goals this season, with the current focus being on enhancing player cohesion.
Expected impact: A heated race for titles
Despite its quiet nature, the winter transfer window is expected to have a significant impact on the balance of power. Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr's shrewd signings intensify the competition for the league title, while Al-Ittihad's domestic acquisitions aim to return the team to contention for a place in the AFC Champions League. Al-Ahli's stability is a strength that could give them an edge in some matches. Now, all eyes are on what each team will deliver on the pitch in the crucial final months of the season.
