Announcement
NEOM S.C. Recognized as Saudi Leading Development Club in the CIES Football Observatory 2026 Ranking.

The ranking evaluates clubs worldwide based on the playing opportunities provided to under-21 players in domestic league competition.  Published by the internationally respected CIES Football Observatory, one of football's leading independent research organizations, the ranking measures the percentage of league minutes played by U21 players, while also tracking the number of U21 starters fielded by each club.

Achieving the top rank among one of the most competitive leagues in the world football is an important milestone in the Club's talent development journey that demonstrates NEOM S.C. commitment to providing young players opportunity to compete, develop and reach their full potential, in line with the Club’s long-term objective of developing the next generation of football talent and providing a clear pathway from youth football to the highest levels of the game. NEOM S.C. is building a leading destination for young players development, supported by elite coaching, modern facilities and Academy.

Christophe Galtier, the 1st Men's Team Head Coach, said: “Player development is at the heart of our football philosophy. These are not just impressive statistics or a matter of chance; they reflect Neom S.C. sporting policy, which aims to make the club a breeding ground for the Saudi football talent of tomorrow. Above all, it proves that the approach is working. And with 2034 on the horizon, this is exactly the kind of trajectory that Saudi football must encourage.”

The CIES Football Observatory ranking is widely regarded as one of the most respected benchmarking tools in global football analytics. Produced by researchers at the International Centre for Sports Studies (CIES) in Switzerland, the Observatory is regularly referenced by clubs, leagues, governing bodies, media organizations and football professionals worldwide for its independent and data-driven analysis. According to the 2026 methodology, clubs are assessed based on the share of domestic league minutes played by footballers who had not yet turned 21 at the time of the match and the number of U21 players included in starting line-ups, providing insight into clubs that actively develop and trust young talent at senior level. For the complete ranking and methodology, visit Top Development Clubs Worldwide - CIES Football Observatory.

Eight of U21 players from NEOM S.C. 1st Men's Team have had active playing minutes in 2026 to date. The Club remains dedicated to developing future generations of players and contributing to the long-term growth of football in Saudi Arabia.