Al Nassr enter the 2026/27 Saudi Pro League season as reigning champions, but the mood around the club is more cautious than celebratory. The biggest concern heading into the new campaign is the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, who has yet to return to training after his summer break following Portugal's World Cup exit. Reports confirm he will miss at least the first two matches of the season while attending his wedding to Georgina Rodriguez, leaving new head coach Ange Postecoglou without his star player from the outset. Postecoglou, who replaced Jorge Jesus after the title win, now faces the challenge of integrating Ronaldo back into a squad that has been preparing without him.

Off the pitch, financial pressure continues to cast a shadow. Reports of debts reaching 800 million Saudi riyals had raised doubts about the club's ability to operate in the transfer market, yet Al Nassr completed the signing of Portuguese midfielder Samu Costa from Real Mallorca. The Saudi Pro League held a press conference clarifying the legal framework that allowed the deal to proceed despite the club's recorded financial obligations.

The goalkeeper situation adds further uncertainty. Al Hilal moved quickly to secure Mohamed Al-Owais, a target Al Nassr had pursued, while the club reached a contract renewal with Raghad Al-Najjar. Goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi remains the subject of exit talks, with Al Shabab reportedly interested.

Al Nassr open their league campaign at home to Al Fateh on August 15, sitting on the foundation of last season's title triumph, two points clear of Al Hilal at the top of the final 2025/26 standings. Defending that lead without Ronaldo available immediately will test the squad's depth from the very first week.