In a move that has sent shockwaves through Asian football, the management of Al-Nassr FC is seriously considering withdrawing from the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) next season. Despite the prestige of the competition, the club reportedly views the financial returns as insufficient compared to the massive operational costs and player salaries under manager Jorge Jesus.
The Financial Dilemma: Is $12.5 Million Enough?
The winner of the AFC Champions League Elite is set to earn $12.5 million. However, for a club like Al-Nassr, which boasts world-class superstars on astronomical wages, this prize pool is seen as a mismatch for their economic ambitions.
Former Al-Nassr spokesperson, Saud Al-Sarami, revealed that the withdrawal is a serious option currently on the table.
“The club is going through a difficult financial crisis,” Al-Sarami stated. “It is impossible to participate with a squad of elite players in a tournament where the top prize is only $12.5 million.”
Al-Nassr is reportedly seeking additional financial backing from the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) and is calling for a significant increase in the tournament’s prize money as a condition for their participation.
A Club in Crisis?
The internal financial strain at Al-Nassr appears to be deeper than previously thought. Reports suggest the club is currently unable to finalize new signings or even renew existing player contracts. “If the club cannot manage internal contract renewals, how can it sustain a campaign in the AFC Elite?” Al-Sarami added.
Current Season Outlook: On the Verge of History
Despite the off-field financial drama, Al-Nassr is enjoying a stellar season on the pitch:
- Saudi Pro League: They are favorites to clinch the 2026 Title, currently leading the table by 5 points with only four rounds remaining.
- AFC Champions League 2: The club has reached the final and is set to face Japan’s Gamba Osaka this May.
However, the financial rewards from the AFC Champions League 2 (the continent’s second-tier competition) are described as “almost non-existent,” adding to the club’s frustration with the current Asian football prize structure.
Context: Why Al-Nassr Missed the Elite This Season
Al-Nassr’s absence from this year’s AFC Champions League Elite was due to their lower league finish last season. In their absence, fellow Saudi giants Al-Ahli claimed the continental crown after defeating Machida Zelvia 2-1 in the final.
