In a move reflecting the remarkable stability enjoyed by Al-Hilal Saudi Club, veteran Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus has finalized his list of foreign players who will be relied upon in domestic competitions, most notably the Saudi Professional League. This decision comes amidst the exceptional performance of "The Boss" this season, their comfortable lead at the top of the standings, and their relentless pursuit of all possible titles.
Al-Hilal's foreign player roster boasts a constellation of the world's most prominent football stars, giving coach Jesus a wide range of tactical options and a "positive headache" when selecting the starting lineup for each match. The final, locally approved squad includes eight top-class players:
- Yassine Bounou (Morocco): The goalkeeper who proved to be a real safety valve for the team's defense.
- Kalidou Koulibaly (Senegal): The rock of the defense and the leader of the back line with his great European experience.
- Ruben Neves (Portugal): The midfield maestro who sets the pace of the game with his precise passes and keen vision.
- Sergej Milinkovic-Savic (Serbia): The dynamic engine in midfield, combining physical strength and technical skill.
- Malcolm (Brazil): The fast and skillful winger who is a constant threat to opponents' defenses.
- Aleksandar Mitrovic (Serbia): The sharpshooter who converts half-chances into goals.
- Michael Delgado (Brazil): The joker player who adds speed and dribbling in the attacking third.
- Neymar Jr. (Brazil): Despite his injury, he remains the club's most prominent star and one of its most important assets for the future.
General context: A revolution in Saudi football
Al-Hilal's star-studded roster is part of the historic transformation the Saudi Professional League has undergone since the summer of 2013. With the Public Investment Fund (PIF) acquiring top clubs and injecting massive investments to attract world-class players, the league's market value and technical quality have skyrocketed. It is no longer just a destination for players at the end of their careers, but has become a magnet for stars at the peak of their powers, intensifying competition and capturing the attention of football fans worldwide.
Importance and expected impact
Domestically, this squad gives Al Hilal a clear advantage in the race for the Saudi Professional League title and the King's Cup. The presence of such quality and experience allows coach Jesus to effectively implement a rotation policy, maintaining player fitness and preventing fatigue. Continentally, Al Hilal, with its strong foreign contingent, enters the race as a top contender for the AFC Champions League title, further enhancing Saudi football's standing on the international stage. Al Hilal's success is not just a club achievement; it reflects the success of a national sports project aimed at positioning the Kingdom as a global football powerhouse by the end of Vision 2030.
