Saudi Pro League 2022-2023

The 2022–23 Saudi Pro League, also known as the Roshn Saudi League for sponsorship reasons, marked the 47th edition of this highly competitive football league in Saudi Arabia. The season ran from August 25, 2022, to May 31, 2023, and witnessed thrilling matches, surprises, and notable achievements.

Defending Champions and New Entrants:

Al-Hilal, the three-time defending champions, aimed to extend their legacy by securing an 18th title. Meanwhile, three newly promoted clubs – Al-Adalah, Al-Khaleej, and Al-Wehda – entered the league from the 2021–22 Yelo League, replacing Al-Ahli, Al-Faisaly, and Al-Hazem, who faced relegation.

Championship and Relegation Drama:

Al-Ittihad emerged as the champions, clinching their ninth league title with a game to spare. They secured the title with a resounding 3–0 away win against Al-Fayha. On the other hand, Al-Batin became the first team to be relegated, following a 1–0 defeat to Al-Ittihad. Al-Adalah, suffering a 2–0 home defeat to Al-Ettifaq on the final matchday, was the second and final club to face relegation.

Structural Changes:

The league underwent structural changes with the announcement that the number of teams in the Pro League for the 2023–24 season would increase from 16 to 18 teams. This expansion meant only two teams would be relegated to the First Division League, with four teams being promoted to the Pro League.

Sponsorship Deal:

In a significant development, the Saudi Pro League (SPL) secured a sponsorship deal with the real estate company Roshn, leading to the league being renamed the Roshn Saudi League (RSL) for the next five seasons.

Team Lineup:

A total of 16 teams competed in the league, with the top 13 teams from the previous season and three teams promoted from the FD League. Notable foreign players from various countries bolstered the teams, adding international flavor to the competition.

Stadiums and Attendances:

Matches took place in stadiums across Saudi Arabia, with varying capacities. The highest attendance recorded was 59,892 during the match between Al-Ittihad and Al-Tai, while the lowest attendance was 284 during the game between Al-Wehda and Al-Fayha. In total, over 2 million fans attended the matches, with an average attendance of 9,339 per game.

Final League Standings:

The final league standings saw Al-Ittihad claim the top spot, followed by Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal. Al-Adalah and Al-Batin found themselves relegated to the FD League.

The 2022–23 Saudi Pro League was a thrilling and action-packed season with moments of glory and heartbreak. Al-Ittihad emerged as the champions, while teams like Al-Batin and Al-Adalah faced the harsh reality of relegation. The league continues to evolve, with structural changes and sponsorship deals ensuring its growth and competitiveness. Football fans eagerly anticipate the next season, hoping for more excitement and memorable moments on the pitch.