Al Nassr's title defence is already under pressure after seven rounds of the Saudi Pro League, with the reigning champions sitting third on 16 points, two behind leaders Al Hilal. A 1-1 draw at Prince Mohamed bin Fahd Stadium against Al Khaleej on September 12 continued a frustrating pattern: conceding first and then scrambling to recover, with Abdullah Al Hamdan's equaliser rescuing a point. That result, combined with inconsistent form across the opening weeks, has raised questions about the squad's ability to mount a sustained challenge.

Off the pitch, the departure of Marcelo Brozovic has resurfaced as a talking point after Qatari club Al Sadd confirmed his signing as a free agent. Critics argue the decision not to renew the Croatian's contract weakened the midfield, with summer signing Samo Costa, who arrived from Real Mallorca for 22 million euros, yet to convince analysts he can fill that role. Broadcaster Batal Al Qaws has publicly questioned whether Costa offers the technical quality required under coach Ange Postecoglou.

Postecoglou himself drew attention after citing Al Hilal in his post-match comments, a reference that sparked further media debate. Reports have also emerged of exploratory contact between AC Milan's owner and parties connected to a potential Al Nassr acquisition, though the club remains fully owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund.

Attention now shifts to Tuesday's AFC Champions League Elite opener against Al-Ain, a side that eliminated Al Nassr in last season's quarter-finals on the way to winning the trophy.