However, European parties want consistency in terms of when the Saudi transfer window opens and closes.

The Saudi transfer window has been open for a week longer this year than in other European leagues.

“I don’t believe there is a threat,” ECA chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi said.

The European Club Association (ECA) was created in 2008 to serve the interests of clubs from around Europe, and it already has hundreds of member teams.

“We believe in ourselves,” said Al-Khelaifi, a Qatari former tennis player who is now the president of Paris St-Germain and a member of Uefa’s executive committee since 2019.

“We have the biggest and best competitions, as well as the best players.” It is not for me to pass judgment on what is going on outside of Europe. The most essential thing for us is to establish our clubs and associations.”

This summer, the Saudi Pro League spent the fourth most on transfers, trailing only Spain’s La Liga and Germany’s Bundesliga. According to Deloitte, Saudi Pro League teams have invested £691 million so far.

According to BBC Sport, financing is guaranteed for a decade, implying that the Gulf nation aspires for its tournament to become one of the world’s best in the future years.

Despite the departures of talents such as Karim Benzema, Jordan Henderson, Sadio Mane, and Neymar, Al-Khelaifi believes the European game is not in danger.

Former Liverpool captain Henderson joined Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq in a contentious move in July, Senegal forward Mane switched from German side Bayern Munich to Al-Nassr, Brazil forward Neymar left Paris St-Germain to play for Al-Hilal, and Benzema is now captain of Al-Ittihad after leaving Real Madrid.

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Why is the Saudi Pro League acquiring players from European clubs?
Despite Al-Khelaifi’s assurances, several teams are concerned about the Saudi Pro League’s ability to sign players in Europe in the week since the major European leagues’ transfer windows closed.

Despite the fact that the Premier League season has already begun, Al-Ittihad has continued to seek Liverpool star Mohamed Salah.

“We shouldn’t be concerned,” said Bayern Munich CEO Jan Christian Dreesen, who has taken over for former Germany goalkeeper Oliver Khan as an ECA vice-president. “We have incredible competitions.” We do not need to be terrified.

“However, I would prefer that the window be closed at the same time.” That is something I would suggest.”

Manchester City chief executive Ferran Soriano was elected to the ECA Board of Directors earlier on Wednesday during the ECA’s General Assembly in Berlin.

Celtic chairman Peter Lawwell was chosen a vice president, while Sparta Prague international relations manager Martina Pavlova and Olympique Lyonnais Feminine owner Michele Kang were elected to the board’s two female roles.

Pavlova has also been appointed vice president.

When asked about the issue surrounding Spain’s women’s World Cup team and the retention of Spanish FA head Luis Rubiales, Pavlova responded, “The ECA speaks for itself – its values are clear.”

“We’re all aware of the proceedings [against Rubiales].” We must await the conclusion.”