The Saudi Pro League is preparing for a potential shift in its global marketing strategy, with reports indicating that Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah and Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes are being considered as future ambassadors. The move is seen as a contingency plan should five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo depart Al-Nassr this summer.
Ronaldo, 41, has been the league’s most high-profile signing since arriving in December 2022. However, his future is now uncertain following public criticism of the league’s primary backer, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), for insufficient support during the recent transfer window. The Portuguese forward did not feature in Al-Nassr’s last two matches, further fueling speculation about his standing at the club.
According to a source cited by The i Paper and reported by Sport Bible, the league views Salah and Fernandes as ideal replacements to sustain international interest. “Salah and Fernandes would be ideal choices, especially Salah, because he would draw in an Arab audience as a Muslim,” the source stated, adding that securing either player alongside emerging local talent would be “really big for us.”
Ronaldo’s current contract, extended in 2025, includes a £43 million release clause that becomes active at the end of the season. Should he exercise this option, his departure would mark a significant moment for the Saudi league, which has heavily relied on his star power to boost its global profile since its major recruitment drive began.
Both Salah and Fernandes are established stars in European football. Salah, 32, has been a Liverpool cornerstone since 2017, scoring over 250 goals across all competitions. Fernandes, also 32, has captained Manchester United since 2020, contributing more than 100 goals from midfield. Their potential move to the Saudi Pro League would represent a different recruitment model—targeting world-class players in their prime rather than veteran stars near the end of their careers.
The league’s reported interest in these players underscores its ambition to maintain momentum amid changing dynamics. While Ronaldo’s situation remains unresolved, the consideration of Salah and Fernandes highlights a strategic effort to diversify its appeal across different regions and demographics, particularly within the Arab and Muslim world. The next transfer window will be closely watched for signs of whether the league can secure such high-caliber replacements.
