Yes, they were paying high salaries a few years ago, but in this period, incredible numbers started to be talked about. If I remember correctly Karim Benzema would earn 200 Million Euros a year. These numbers are too high for a normal player to win in Europe. That's why they are now at the level of hindering European football. That's why it's getting more attention this year.
It's just that even in comparison with the top European salaries, the salaries that Saudi clubs agree to pay to the same players are at least twice as high. In principle, on the one hand, it seems to pose a real danger to the European championships, but on the other hand, the level and reputation of European cup tournaments are much higher, so this can serve as a counterbalance to the flow of the best players to Saudi Arabia.
I think it will able to change with the goes of time. European league is still superior to the arabian league but i think that everything can change. The main problem if saudi clubs can disrupt the team one the transfer season already ended in the european league.
Some coaches have been sending protests to the UEFA regarding this, but so far there's no response came from UEFA regarding this problem. Saudi club has much longer time to recruit player from european club.
This is why some coaches were feeling fear once saudi will disrupt their preparations for the upcoming season. I think that if saudi can do everything by using its money.
Let's see what decision that's gonna coming from UEFA regarding this. UEFA can at least try to give a response regarding this.