Prince Abdullah, who held the position from 2014 to 2017 — before the major influx of foreign players that reshaped the league — also cautioned that this influx is marginalizing local talent and endangering the future of the national team.

In an interview on Al-Arabiya’s Fi Al-Marama TV show, Abdullah emphasized the need for urgent reforms to safeguard Saudi players and maintain competitiveness ahead of the 2034 World Cup, which Saudi Arabia will host.

"Ronaldo is the only foreign player who justifies his earnings due to the international attention he brings to both the league and the country," he remarked about the Portuguese forward, whose yearly salary is estimated at $211 million — $4 million per week.

"Many others receive far more than they merit."

Prince Abdullah noted that Saudi players have become “background players” since the allowed number of foreign players per team on matchdays increased to eight, calling for a reduction to seven and greater investment in youth development.

"Currently, strengthening the league is happening at the cost of the national team," he stated. "We require a clear strategy to prepare for 2034."

He also advocated for recruiting top-tier coaches for youth teams and warned that without systemic reforms, Saudi players will find it difficult to regain their key roles.

Prince Abdullah, who during his term raised concerns about refereeing standards and appointed former English referee Howard Webb as director of referees for the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, also proposed holding major matches on Thursdays to allow leading European referees to officiate.