Al Nassr's title defence has hit a significant obstacle. A 1-0 defeat away at Al Ittihad on September 5 dropped the reigning Saudi Pro League champions three points behind Al Hilal, who lead the table with a perfect 15 points from five games. Al Nassr sit second on 12 points from four matches, but the gap is a concern given the financial constraints pressing on the club from every direction.

The financial oversight imposed on Al Nassr has been the defining off-pitch story of the summer. As reported across multiple sources, the restrictions limited the club's ability to strengthen the squad during the transfer window and, critically, blocked contract renewals for several players. A partial relief came when the Saudi Pro League granted permission for Al Nassr to renew contracts for their youth and under-21 squads, but the broader picture remains difficult. Negotiations over senior contracts broke down entirely, leaving the club exposed heading into a season where they are competing on two fronts.

Al Nassr are also preparing for their AFC Champions League Elite campaign, with their opening group-stage fixture away at Al Ain scheduled for September 15. The articles note this could be a final shot at continental glory for Cristiano Ronaldo, who has two league goals so far this season alongside teammates Sadio Mane, Joao Felix, and Angelo Gabriel. Former coach Jorge Jesus, who led the club to last season's title before taking the Portugal job, has been linked with a return visit to Saudi Arabia for personal matters, though his departure remains permanent. New head coach Ange Postecoglou now faces the challenge of defending the league title while managing a squad operating under real financial pressure.