Al Nassr enter the 2026-27 season as Saudi Pro League champions, but their title defence begins under immediate pressure with Cristiano Ronaldo absent from the opening fixtures. The Portuguese captain officially married Georgina Rodriguez on August 11, confirming earlier reports that his extended post-World Cup break would keep him out of the club's first two league games. Portugal's early exit at the round of 16 to Spain began his summer absence, and questions about his physical readiness for new head coach Ange Postecoglou's project have followed ever since.

Off the pitch, the club's transfer window has been shaped as much by financial constraints as sporting ambition. Reports of debts reaching 800 million Saudi riyals surfaced publicly, yet Al Nassr still completed the signing of Portuguese midfielder Samu Costa from Real Mallorca. The Saudi Pro League clarified the legal framework that permitted the deal despite the club's recorded financial obligations. In goal, the situation remains unsettled. A move for international keeper Mohammed Al-Owais collapsed, with Al-Hilal securing his return instead. Nawaf Al-Aqidi's future stays unresolved, with Al-Shabab making an offer for him while talks with Al-Fateh have broken down. Raghad Al-Najjar has agreed a contract renewal, giving the squad some stability between the posts.

Postecoglou, who took charge this summer after Jorge Jesus delivered the title, faces his first competitive test on August 15 when Al Fateh visit Al-Awwal Park. Three days later, Al Nassr open their King's Cup campaign against Al-Diriyah. The new season carries real expectation, but Ronaldo's absence and the ongoing goalkeeper uncertainty mean the defending champions head into it carrying more uncertainty than their status demands.