The corridors of Al-Hilal Saudi Club are witnessing intense technical and administrative activity as the winter transfer period approaches, with Italian coach Simone Inzaghi settling on a list of departures that includes four prominent names, in a bold move aimed at restructuring the team and injecting new blood that is appropriate for the upcoming challenges.
These decisions come at a time when Al-Hilal is striving to maintain its domestic and continental achievements, as competing in the Saudi Professional League and the AFC Champions League demands a high level of technical and physical readiness. The winter transfer window presents a golden opportunity for major clubs to correct their course and address weaknesses, which is precisely what Al-Hilal's coaching staff is aiming for by releasing some players to make room for quality signings or to give other players a chance.
Joao Cancelo... Returning to La Liga via Barcelona
Portuguese full-back João Cancelo tops the list of departures, with the club's management convinced of the necessity of his exit based on coach Inzaghi's technical report. Despite the player's considerable potential, his inconsistent performances and lack of complete integration with the Italian coach's tactical system hastened his departure. A preliminary agreement has been reached for Cancelo to join Spanish club Barcelona on loan, a move the player eagerly anticipates in order to rediscover his form in European football and secure a regular starting position in the Portuguese national team in preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
Mohammed Al-Qahtani: The Search for Footballing Maturity
As part of their policy to develop young talent, the coaching staff decided to loan out Saudi prodigy Mohammed Al-Qahtani to a Roshan League club. Inzaghi believes Al-Qahtani possesses exceptional skills but desperately needs more playing time and consistent exposure, which cannot be guaranteed at present given the abundance of stars at Al-Hilal. This move is a strategic step to prepare the player for the future, allowing him to return more mature and experienced, ultimately benefiting both Al-Hilal and the Saudi national team.
Ali Al-Blihi: The end of an era and an uncertain future
Perhaps the most shocking news for Al-Hilal fans is the exclusion of veteran defender Ali Al-Bulaihi from the coach's plans. Al-Bulaihi, who has long been a cornerstone and a linchpin of the Blue defense, finds himself outside of Inzaghi's tactical plans as the coach seeks to rejuvenate the back line. However, Al-Bulaihi's extensive experience and leadership qualities have made him a target for top clubs, with reports indicating serious interest from Jeddah and Riyadh giants Al-Ahli and Al-Nassr in acquiring his services, either on loan or through a permanent transfer, potentially setting the stage for another controversial deal in the sports world.
Abdullah Al-Hamdan... A new challenge in the Al-Nassr jersey
Finally, striker Abdullah Al-Hamdan is on the verge of a free transfer to arch-rivals Al-Nassr. This decision comes after the relationship between the player and his current club reached an impasse, and Al-Hamdan expressed his desire for a new challenge where he can prove his goal-scoring abilities. The player sees the move to Al-Nassr as an ideal opportunity to revive his career and compete strongly for a starting position, benefiting from the highly competitive atmosphere of the Riyadh derby.
