Most of the debate surrounding the flow of players joining the Saudi Pro League has focused on off-field factors, such as transfer fees, wages and commercial potential. Meanwhile, the impact they show on the pitch is not much discussed.
And the reality is that not every star meets expectations when moving to the country of West Asia...
Benzema and Al-Ittihad cannot find a common voice
A typical example is the clear power struggle between Benzema and coach Nuno Espirito Santo at Al-Ittihad. The French player has yet to score since joining the Saudi Pro League champions. And there is another storm coming to the dressing room.
shortly after arriving at the club, Benzema was asked to wear the captain's armband, but Nuno refused. Al-Ittihad's captaincy has still belonged to Brazilian striker Romarinho this season.
This disagreement is at risk leading to a not-so-good outlook. Benzema is understood to be "uncomfortable" at Al-Ittihad and the possibility of him leaving is not ruled out. All of this is happening in the context of even more uncertainty.
Saudi Arabia's Al-Sharq Al-Awsat newspaper recently reported a disagreement on registering foreign players at the club. Former West Brom defender Ahmed Hegazi is currently injured but has demanded full payment if Al-Ittihad want him to leave.
Then there is a strange story about Jota, a £25 million player from Celtic in July, who seems to have left after just a few weeks. The reason has not been revealed but shows the chaos at Al-Ittihad.
That is not what Benzema once thought about this tournament.
Ronaldo did not start smoothly
Not only have recent contracts not shown their form in the Saudi Pro League this season. Superstar Ronaldo also had to go through a challenging start to the new season.
Since winning the Arab Club Champions Cup, Al-Nassr's form has seriously declined. With Ronaldo injured, they suffered a shocking defeat against Steven Gerrard's Al-Ettifaq on the opening day.
Things are not much better when they host Al-Taawoun next week. Ronaldo was no longer fit and Al-Nassr suffered another disappointing defeat.
The victory over Shabab Al-Ahli in the AFC Champions League is a good sign, but it could not help Al-Nassr fans feel secure.
So, what's going on? Not only the Premier League but also clubs in the Saudi Pro League are facing a tight schedule. Coach Luis Castro was recently angry after Al-Nassr had to face Al-Ettifaq just 48 hours after the Arab Club Champions Cup final.
I dont know how to play on Monday, its impossible. In addition, we played extra time in tonight's final. We have to respect the players," said the head coach of Al-Nassr.
Clearly, Saudi Arabia's move to the tournament is not a "resort" for Ronaldo and other stars. In addition, they have to adapt to the hot weather in the Western Asian country.
As for Neymar...?
All of the above issues are a warning bell for Neymar, an Al-Hilal rookie.
The Brazilian player is a big star who has always caused controversy throughout his career. Therefore, getting involved in the complexity of the Saudi Pro League will make things more unpredictable. In addition, a frugal lifestyle and high benefits also risk burying Neymar's career in Arabia.
Saudi Arabia is not an " easy" tournament as Neymar and other stars imagined.
