The Middle East has become the master of investment in the last few decades. But its arrival in sports has picked up momentum in the past few years. With increased investments in Soccer, WWE, and Formula One, the region has seen a massive increase in results. The PIF of Saudi, which invests big money in Saudi clubs, now wants to move to Europe, targeting two more big clubs. Without a doubt, the investment in Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar’s clubs is already looking like a good bet.

A few European clubs have already faced transformation after being bought by the region with massive investments. Clubs like Newcastle United, Manchester City, and Paris Saint-Germain have gained quick success with their new owners. Even after receiving much criticism, Saudi and the clubs remain persistent. The country also aimed to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup but failed.

After the Cristiano Ronaldo triumph, Saudi aims for two monster clubs from Europe

Saudi’s PIF, under the leadership of Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has already bought Newcastle in 2021 at a whopping price of $415 million. After its acquisition, the country has made a reputation for getting into the market and intimidating it with huge money. Now, the fund has targeted two clubs, Valencia CF and Olympique de Marseille.

PIF, which is worth $650 billion, is ready to privatize clubs in Saudi and is willing to expand investments globally. It also acquired a major stake in the top four clubs of Saudi, including Al Nassr who eventually bought Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar’s Al Hilal. The clubs further went on to buy some massive players, eventually resulting in a transfer explosion in the last window. Reports estimate the country to have spent $950 million, approximately only second to the English Premier League.

Valencia is currently placed 9th in Spanish La Liga. Last season, the club was almost on the verge of relegation, finishing 16th in the table, just three points above Valladolid, who now play in the second division. Marseille, on the other hand, had a reasonable start to Ligue 1 until the 4-0 Le Classique defeat to PSG.

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Owning the top four clubs in the Saudi Pro League

PIF bought 75% of stakes in Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli due to its new privatization policy. The policy allows the PIF to go further and invest in more sporting entities using the funds. The idea is to launch Saudi as a significant investor in the soccer market, allowing it to bring various partners and sponsors across the globe.

The fans criticized the European clubs for allowing such big money, especially from oil-owned firms, to enter the sport. The apprehension was about the clubs gaining an undue advantage by spending lavish money. However, the Middle East seems on a mission and looking to go wherever they find good opportunities.

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