What a Clasico Supercopa in Jeddah tells us about the relationship between Spain and Saudi Arabia

“Today’s Spanish Supercopa final between Barcelona and Real Madrid at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah is the most visible symbol of a fast-developing link between Spanish football and Saudi Arabia. Now in its fifth year, the ‘Saudi Supercopa’ is considered by some as the cherry on top of a mutually beneficial relationship. As well as hosting one of Spain’s major knockout competitions, nine Spanish players are currently registered with Saudi Pro League (SPL) sides. The highest profile is La Roja’s Euro 2024-winning centre-back Aymeric Laporte at Al Nassr, and former Madrid captain Nacho Fernandez at Al Qadsiah. …”
NY Times/The Athletic