Al Nassr have started their Saudi Pro League title defence with real conviction, beating Al Fateh 3-0 at Al-Awwal Park on August 15 to sit top of the standings after the opening round. The goals came from Angelo Gabriel, Joao Felix and Samu Costa, a result that sent a clear message to their rivals despite Cristiano Ronaldo watching from the stands rather than playing.

Ronaldo's absence from the pitch was the most discussed subplot heading into the season. The Portuguese captain, who has hinted this could be his final year in professional football, was present but unavailable, and the team performed without him with authority. Head coach Ange Postecoglou drew attention after the match for publicly raising concerns about fixture congestion, though analysts were quick to point out that Al Nassr's schedule is no heavier than their rivals face.

Off the pitch, the club has been navigating a registration issue affecting Saudi Pro League clubs this summer. A clause in league regulations could delay newly signed players from featuring in the competition until the winter window, a situation that adds complexity to their transfer planning before the September 6 deadline.

Al Nassr now turn their attention to a King Cup round-of-32 tie away at Al Diriyah on August 18, before returning to league action against Al Riyad on August 21. With the squad showing depth and cohesion early, confidence around the club is high as they pursue back-to-back titles.