The most impactful signing is Darwin Nunez. The Uruguayan striker was thought to have completed a move to Turkey but ultimately decided to continue playing in Saudi Arabia. He joined Al Diriyah on loan from Al Hilal until the end of the season.

Nunez played for Penarol, Almeria, and Benfica before moving to Liverpool for 105 million USD in the summer of 2022. The Uruguayan forward did not meet expectations, struggled to secure a regular starting spot, and only managed 40 goals and 26 assists in 143 matches. Last season, he joined Al Hilal, scoring 9 goals in 24 appearances across all competitions.

Al Diriyah announced the completion of Darwin Nunez's recruitment on 23/8. *Photo: Al Diriyah*

Al Diriyah also recruited Enzo Millot on loan from Al Ahly. The French player developed through the Monaco academy, then spent four seasons with Stuttgart before moving to Al Ahly for 35 million USD in the summer of 2025. He scored 9 goals in 40 matches, playing a significant role in helping the club defend its AFC Champions League title.

Al Diriyah also features another notable player, Oscar Rodriguez. The 28-year-old midfielder came through Real Madrid's La Fabrica academy before playing for Sevilla, Getafe, and Celta Vigo. He left European football when he moved to Al Diriyah in 2025.

On the coaching staff, Al Diriyah also boasts an experienced coach, Bruno Lage. His career highlight includes winning four titles with Benfica: one league title, one League Cup, and two Portuguese Super Cups. The Portuguese manager also previously led Botafogo and Wolves before signing with Al Diriyah in 7/2026.

Al Diriyah was founded by Saad Al-Rashed and Abdul Rahman bin Suraie. The club's first president was Abdullah Al-Jadaie. In 7/2021, Doctor Khalid Al-Habshan was elected club president by the General Assembly.

On 12/7/2024, the Saudi Ministry of Sport officially transferred ownership of Diriyah Club to Diriyah Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF). This move is part of Saudi's "Vision 2030" program, aimed at privatizing and professionalizing sports clubs nationwide. Following the takeover, Diriyah Company appointed a new board, chaired by Prince Khalid bin Mohammed.

Diriyah is located in the suburbs of Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. The city currently has approximately 70,000 residents and is undergoing rapid development due to tourism and urbanization. The local team's promotion to the Saudi Pro League also helps bring Diriyah closer to international fans.

Al Diriyah currently shares Alawwal Park, the home stadium of Al Nassr, the club featuring Cristiano Ronaldo. Travel from central Diriyah to this stadium takes approximately 20 minutes. Al Diriyah will continue to play here until it has its own stadium.

In the two opening rounds of the Saudi Pro League, Al Diriyah lost 0-1 to Al Ahli and won 1-0 against Al Hazm, respectively. In the next round on 26/8, the club will face Al Kholood.

Hong Duy (according to AS)