The Business Press – July 03, 2023 at 07:00PM
The transfer market has witnessed the emergence of a new player on the scene – Saudi Arabia. While their transfer plan may appear similar to some other countries, there lies a deeper strategy in Riyadh that has the potential to disrupt the existing order. Drawing comparisons to China’s past missteps, this article delves into the cautionary tale of the Chinese Super League and explores the implications of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious moves in the football world.
It was not long ago when the Chinese Super League made waves with its extravagant spending spree, luring renowned football superstars with astronomical wages. The signing of players like Oscar, Carlos Tevez, Didier Drogba, and Nicolas Anelka created a seductive façade that promised a new era of football dominance. However, as time unraveled, it became evident that the Chinese venture would become synonymous with a series of regrettable missteps.
Back in December 2016, when Oscar made his highly publicized move from Chelsea to Shanghai SIPG, the transfer marked a turning point. Antonio Conte, then Chelsea manager, cautioned against the Chinese danger, foreseeing the pitfalls of a transfer system focusing solely on high-profile names. As Uefa’s chief executive, Aleksander Ceferin pointedly observed, the approach of buying players whose careers were seemingly on the decline does not contribute to the overall development and growth of the game.
The Chinese experiment ultimately unraveled, leaving a trail of bankrupted clubs, corruption scandals, and a general lack of improvement in the league’s overall standards. While there were undoubtedly moments of glamour and excitement, the long-term sustainability of the Chinese Super League was undermined by unsustainable financial practices, lack of proper oversight, and a failure to foster local talent development.
As Saudi Arabia increasingly enters the football transfer market, it is crucial to assess the underlying motivations and strategies driving their moves. While some may be quick to dismiss these actions as mere mimicry of the Chinese approach, a closer look reveals a more calculated and strategic plan taking shape. The Kingdom aims to build a solid foundation, focusing not just on high-profile stars, but also on grassroots football, infrastructure development, and youth training programs.
Saudi Arabia’s football ambitions appear to transcend the mere pursuit of glamour and instant success. By highlighting the mistakes made in China, they are keen to learn from past failures and carve a different path. The emphasis on creating a sustainable football ecosystem, empowering local talent, and investing in infrastructure showcases a commitment to long-term growth rather than relying solely on short-term gains.
As Saudi Arabia makes its mark in the footballing world, it is evident that their transfer plan carries a deeper strategic vision. By acknowledging the perils encountered by China, they aim to navigate the path to success with prudence, striving to avoid the pitfalls of unsustainable spending and neglecting local development. This calculated approach has the potential to reshape the existing football order, setting an example for other aspiring nations seeking a prominent place on the global football stage.
The Business Press 