Summary
The Asian Champions League is starting, featuring several former English Premier League stars. Saudi clubs, which have invested heavily in international players, are expected to perform strongly. Other teams from South Korea and Japan also aim to compete for the title.
Key Facts
- The Asian Champions League begins with players like Ivan Toney, Jesse Lingard, Riyad Mahrez, and Darwin Nunez participating.
- Last season, Saudi clubs, which are heavily funded, reached the semifinals, with Al-Ahli ultimately winning the tournament.
- Saudi Pro League teams have spent around $1.5 billion on players since 2023.
- Al-Hilal is the most successful team in the tournament's history with four titles.
- Former Premier League star Jesse Lingard is playing for FC Seoul in South Korea's K-League.
- Simone Inzaghi, formerly of Inter Milan, is now coaching Al-Hilal.
- Japanese club Vissel Kobe may pose a challenge to Saudi teams this season.
- The tournament's group stage includes 24 teams divided into western and eastern zones.
