Al Nassr begin their title defence under Ange Postecoglou carrying the weight of financial pressure and a notable absentee, with Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed to miss the club's first two matches of the 2026/27 Saudi Pro League season due to his wedding. The Portuguese captain only returned from the World Cup after Portugal's exit to Spain in the round of 16, and questions remain about his fitness and sharpness going into the new campaign.

Off the pitch, the club's financial situation has dominated the pre-season conversation. Reports circulated of debts reaching 800 million Saudi riyals, yet Al Nassr still completed the signing of Portuguese midfielder Samo 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 registered financial obligations. Costa's arrival, though, is reported to have exhausted the available transfer budget, tightening the club's room for further moves.

The goalkeeper situation adds another layer of complexity. Al Nassr missed out on Saudi international Mohammed Al-Owais, who returned to Al Hilal, while the club reached an agreement to renew Raghad Al-Najjar's contract. Nawaf Al-Aqidi remains a source of friction, with talks over his future stalling despite the club's clear desire to move him on, and Al Shabab now reportedly interested in a deal.

Al Nassr open the new season at home to Al Fateh on August 15, sitting as reigning champions with 86 points from last season, two ahead of Al Hilal. Defending that margin without Ronaldo from the start will be the first test of Postecoglou's title defence.