Sources close to Al-Hilal Saudi Club have revealed serious efforts to finalize the contract extension of their defensive stalwart, Senegalese international Kalidou Koulibaly. This strategic move aims to maintain the first team's technical stability. The desire to extend his contract stems from a direct recommendation by Portuguese manager Jorge Jesus, who has expressed his admiration for the player's performances and his leadership qualities both on and off the field.
According to reports, Al-Hilal's management is seeking to extend the 34-year-old player's contract for an additional season, so that it ends in June 2027 instead of its current date in the summer of 2026. This move aims to secure the continued presence of one of the most important defensive pillars in the team, especially in light of the strong competitions that await "Al-Za'eem" at the local and continental levels.
General context: A high-quality deal within an ambitious sports project
Kalidou Koulibaly joined Al-Hilal in the summer of 2013 from English club Chelsea, in a transfer that generated significant international attention. His move was part of the ambitious project underway in the Saudi Professional League, which attracted a host of top international football stars with the aim of raising the level of competition and the league's marketing value. Koulibaly was not just a new player; he was a leader with extensive experience gained from his distinguished career in European leagues, most notably with Italian club Napoli, where he established himself as one of the best defenders in the world.
The importance of renewal and its expected impact
Domestically, Koulibaly has proven indispensable to coach Jesus's squad. He formed a solid defensive partnership and played a direct role in Al Hilal's exceptional and historic season, culminating in an unbeaten run to the Roshan League title and an unprecedented series of victories. Extending his contract ensures the continuation of this defensive stability, which is vital for maintaining domestic dominance in the coming seasons.
Regionally and internationally, the decision to retain Coulibaly sends a clear message about Al Hilal's continued ambitions to compete for the AFC Champions League title and make a strong showing in global tournaments like the FIFA Club World Cup. Having a player of his experience and abilities gives the team significant leverage in crucial matches against the strongest teams in Asia and the world. This renewal also reinforces the reputation of the Saudi league as an attractive and stable destination for international stars, demonstrating not only its ability to attract them but also to retain them and convince them to stay, thus confirming the success of the sporting experiment in the Kingdom.
