The designation of the 2034 World Cup has sparked heightened interest in the stars of the future, with the money and determination both there. Cristiano Ronaldo is at the forefront, amplifying the ripple effect.
Saudi Arabia secured the hosting rights for the 2034 World Cup and the country now faces two significant challenges. Over the next decade, the nation aims to organise the most successful and spectacular World Cup in history, both in terms of financial returns and global acclaim. Additionally, it seeks to capitalise on this momentum to transform its domestic league into the best in the world—a daunting yet achievable goal.
The Roshn Saudi League has already made remarkable strides. In the 2022–2023 season, it ranked 19th in transfer spending with just €45 million. By the following season, it skyrocketed to 4th place, investing an astounding €972 million in player transfers.
The landmark signing of Cristiano Ronaldo acted as a catalyst, attracting a wave of high-profile players to Saudi Arabia. These include stars like Benzema, Neymar, Malcom, Otávio, Rúben Neves, Mitrović, Fabinho, Mahrez, Kanté, Gabri Veiga, Mané, Laporte, Bono, Brozović, Carrasco, Kessié, Wijnaldum, Cancelo, Simakan, Toney, and others—players who have either been pivotal for their teams or still have much to offer.
World Cup bid to ignite Saudi transfer policy
The momentum carried into the 2024–2025 campaign, with nearly €500 million more invested, supported by the Public Investment Fund. Saudi Arabia is now firmly established as one of the world’s most influential soccer markets, second only to powerhouses like the Premier League, Serie A, Bundesliga, Ligue 1, and LaLiga.
Winning the 2034 World Cup hosting rights has further fuelled Saudi Arabia’s ambitions for growth. The designation will undoubtedly impact its domestic league and transfer market, although the specifics remain uncertain. What is clear is the sheer financial might of the nation’s petrodollars, which will likely enable them to attract some of the world’s best players, both current and emerging stars.
Recently, Saudi Arabia has attempted to lure players like Vinícius Jr. and set its sights on rising talents such as Lamine Yamal, who could become the face of their ambitious project. Despite facing rejection from players like Lionel Messi and Luka Modrić, the league has successfully secured Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Benzema, Kanté, Fabinho, and others. Saudi clubs are prepared to spare no expense in building their reputation as a soccer powerhouse.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence is central to this plan. As the first marquee signing, his presence has laid the foundation for the league’s transformation, with 2034 set as the ultimate milestone. “It’s incredible—the infrastructure, the stadiums, the conditions for the fans—everything,” said Ronaldo following the announcement of Saudi Arabia as the 2034 World Cup host. “After what I’ve seen, I’m even more convinced that 2034 will be the best World Cup of all time.”