Al-Hilal strengthens its ranks with a promising winter signing
The board of directors of Al-Hilal Club, chaired by Mr. Fahad bin Nafel, announced the official signing of young French striker Mohamed Kader Meïté from Stade Rennais. The deal is for three and a half years and represents a significant addition to the team's attack during the current winter transfer window. The board expressed its sincere gratitude to His Royal Highness Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal bin Abdulaziz, a gold member of the club, for covering the entire cost of the transfer, a gesture reflecting his ongoing support for the club.
Background of the deal and the role of gold members
This generous support from Prince Alwaleed bin Talal comes within the context of the pivotal role played by gold members in Saudi clubs. The gold membership system is a cornerstone of funding for major clubs, with major supporters contributing to financing significant deals and development projects, thus enhancing the clubs' competitiveness both domestically and continentally. Prince Alwaleed bin Talal has long been one of Al Hilal's most prominent supporters throughout its history, contributing to numerous landmark deals that have led the club to major achievements.
Who is Mohamed Meiti? A French talent in Saudi football
Eighteen-year-old Mohamed Kader Meïté is considered one of the most promising young talents in French football. He progressed through all the youth ranks at Stade Rennais, a club renowned for its strong academy that has produced numerous stars, eventually reaching the first team. Meïté also boasts an impressive international record with France's youth national teams, having represented the under-16, under-17, under-19, and under-21 sides, reflecting the considerable talent and experience he has gained despite his young age.
Player statistics with Stade Rennais for the 25/26 season
The player participated in (19) matches wearing the Rennes jersey this season, during which he scored (3) goals and made two goals for his teammates during (567) minutes of play, which are numbers that highlight his ability to contribute effectively to the attack.
The expected impact of the deal on Al-Hilal and the Saudi League
Domestically, the signing of Mete is expected to provide the coach with additional attacking options and squad depth amidst the fierce competition in the Saudi Professional League and the King's Cup. Regionally and internationally, attracting a young talent from one of Europe's top five leagues enhances the Saudi league's reputation as an attractive destination not only for established stars at the end of their careers but also for promising young talents seeking a new challenge and an ambitious sporting project. This deal underscores the purchasing power of Saudi clubs and their ability to compete in the global transfer market, just hours before the winter transfer window closes, having opened on January 5th and ending today, Monday, February 2nd.
