The docuseries will debut on November 21. Photo Courtesy of Netflix © 2024

Who can forget that remarkable night on day three of the FIFA World Cup Qatar, when Saudi Arabia pulled off the unimaginable, defeating Argentina and sending ripples across the world? That triumph not only etched itself into history but also paved the way for one of football’s most significant moments shortly thereafter—when Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr Football Club in Riyadh. The move sparked a frenzy among fans and analysts, with questions flooding in from every corner of the globe: Why would one of the world's top players choose a league still establishing its international reputation?

Now, football enthusiasts are set to receive some answers as Netflix unveils the trailer for the highly anticipated sports docuseries Saudi Pro League: Kickoff. Slated to premiere on November 21, this six-episode series delves deep into the essence of Saudi football, providing an exclusive look at the league's ambitious 48th season.

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With the goal of transforming the Saudi Pro League into a global force, this season has seen major signings and a renewed push to elevate Saudi football to unprecedented levels. Produced by Whisper, the series tracks five leading teams—Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, Al Ahli, and Al Etiffaq—as they vie for the championship through a season marked by intense competition, high hopes, and inevitable setbacks.

The series addresses some tough questions: Can Saudi Arabia's substantial investments in football yield results on the world stage? How are international stars adjusting to the cultural shift, and how are Saudi players responding to the influx of foreign talent? There’s also much in store for both hardcore football fans and Ronaldo admirers. While Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr has already caused a stir, the docuseries offers an intimate look at his impact on the team. His unyielding drive to win infuses Al Nassr with fresh energy, showcasing how he motivates his teammates and inspires the squad during their most challenging times.

And he’s not the only global star illuminating the Saudi Pro League. We also get a peek at Brazilian sensation Neymar, who joined Al Hilal in August 2023. Despite being sidelined by injury, Neymar’s influence on Saudi football is unmistakable.

The series also highlights the emerging local talent determined to leave their mark amidst an expanding roster of international stars. Players like Salem Al Dawsari of Al Hilal, Feras Al Buraikan from Al Ahli, Talal Haji of Al Ittihad, and Abdulrahman Ghareeb at Al Nassr are striving to prove their worth on the same fields as legends.

With Saudi Arabia recently securing the FIFA World Cup 2034 bid, the nation is solidly on its trajectory to becoming a football powerhouse. This docuseries captures the country's strategic transformation in football, from global branding to fostering a close-knit community, with Ronaldo at the forefront.

So, get ready for Saudi Pro League: Kickoff, streaming on Netflix November 21, for an unforgettable behind-the-scenes look at Saudi football.

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