Major changes in continental distribution...and Saudi Arabia is the biggest beneficiary

Media reports revealed a trend within the Asian Football Confederation to adopt a new mechanism for distributing continental seats, which would give Saudi clubs a greater presence in the elite AFC Champions League and the AFC Champions League 2.

The sources indicated that the new proposal gives Saudi Arabia six seats, making it equal to Japan at the top of the seat distribution, in a move that reflects the growing strength of Saudi clubs on the continental scene in recent years.

According to the proposed concept, Saudi clubs will get three seats. Directly in the AFC Champions League for the Elite, in addition to two seats via the supplement, in addition to a direct seat in the AFC Champions League 2.

This trend represents a noticeable development compared to the current system, which gives Saudi Arabia three direct seats in the Elite League, and only one seat in the second tournament.

This move comes supported by the positive results achieved by Saudi clubs recently, as Al-Ahly reached the semi-finals of the AFC Champions League for the Elite, while Al-Nasr reached the semi-finals of the AFC Champions League. 2.

According to the same proposal, the UAE and South Korea will each get five seats, while Qatar and Thailand will get four seats each, in a new distribution that reshapes the continental competition map.

It is expected, if the decision is officially adopted, that it will contribute to strengthening the Saudi presence in Asia, and open the door for a larger number of clubs to participate in continental championships during the coming seasons.