Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr has made a strong start to the new Saudi Pro League season, but recent developments have complicated their path. Rivals Al-Riyadh and Al-Ettifaq have received significant boosts with new player registrations just before facing Al-Nassr, adding intrigue to the early weeks of the title race.

Al-Riyadh has been granted approval to register Ivorian midfielder Kader Keita, who will replace Senegalese striker Mamadou Sylla in the squad. Keita, who previously played for Romanian club Rapid București, brings physicality and defensive strength to Al-Riyadh's midfield, which could be crucial in their upcoming match against Al-Nassr on Friday.

Meanwhile, Al-Ettifaq has also received the green light to sign Swedish forward Jordan Larsson, whose transfer had been delayed due to financial restrictions. The club has finalized a deal worth approximately $1.5 million, with Larsson's contract running until June 2029. His arrival could provide Al-Ettifaq with an additional attacking option as they prepare to face Al-Nassr on August 25.

These developments come amid the Saudi Pro League's tightening financial controls, which limit first-team expenditure to 75% of a club's revenue. This has created hurdles for clubs trying to finalize transfers, as seen with both Al-Riyadh and Al-Ettifaq needing approvals before adding new players.

For Al-Nassr, these updates pose a double challenge as they aim to secure every major domestic trophy this season. After a strong start, including a 3-0 victory over Al-Fateh and a 4-1 win against Al-Diriyah in the King’s Cup, Ronaldo's team must now contend with opponents who have enhanced their squads. The upcoming matches will test Al-Nassr's depth and resilience in the face of rising competition.