Entrepreneur Ben Harburg guides Al Kholood into a new Saudi Pro League football era

Al Kholood have entered a new chapter in Saudi Pro League history. The club became the first foreign-owned side in the competition after being acquired by the United States-based Harburg Group this summer. Entrepreneur Ben Harburg, who also has ownership ties in European football, is now shaping the team’s vision for growth both on and off the pitch.Ben Harburg describes Al Kholood as a club with potential and room to experiment. He chose the team because of its location in Al Qassim and its relatively new presence in the top division. For him, Al Kholood represents a project where modern football practices, infrastructure, and player development can be introduced without the heavy expectations that surround bigger clubs.His immediate goal is to keep the team secure in the Saudi Pro League. Stability on the pitch is the first target. Beyond survival, Harburg aims to establish a club. That is renowned for its professionalism in sports science, coaching, and player welfare. His long-term ambition is to build a brand similar to global multi-club networks, where Al Kholood is seen as a producer of talent that larger clubs value.A strong youth system is also central to his plan. and he aims to create pathways for Saudi players who can eventually move to more established teams in the league. International prospects will be attracted not by the highest salaries, but by a professional environment that fosters their career development.Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has become one of the cornerstones of Harburg’s project. The defender’s experience across Europe and international football gives the squad the stability it needs during this period of change.Troost-Ekong’s leadership is seen as vital in balancing the team as it adjusts to new ownership. Beyond his on-field contributions. Now he is expected to help younger teammates grow and maintain a sense of direction in the locker room, and for Harburg, Troost-Ekong represents more than a player, he is a figure who connects the team’s ambitions with professionalism and maturity.There are also plans to engage his wide fan base, particularly in Nigeria, to expand Al Kholood’s profile beyond Saudi Arabia. His presence adds both sporting and commercial value. Mostly to the club’s vision.Ben Harburg has placed a strong emphasis on building a relationship with Al Kholood supporters. He has made efforts to meet them, listen to their views, and involve them in the club’s direction. This approach has already garnered attention online, where some fans of larger Saudi clubs have begun following Al Kholood as a secondary team.The club’s upcoming home match marks the first since the takeover. This makes fan support even more significant, Harburg’s message has been consistent. Al Kholood will value every supporter and rely on their presence. As the team works to build stability in the Saudi Pro League.Read More: Why top European stars are choosing Saudi Arabia over Europe