Al-Hilal received a huge morale and tactical boost ahead of their upcoming match against Al-Ettifaq, with the return of their veteran Senegalese international defender, Kalidou Coulibaly . Coulibaly's return comes at a crucial time for the team, which is looking to continue its winning streak and secure its lead in the Saudi Professional League standings.
Koulibaly missed the team's last match against Shabab Al-Ahli Dubai in the AFC Champions League due to a thigh injury. However, he has fully recovered and returned to team training, confirming his readiness for the upcoming match between the two teams in the 22nd round of the league, which will be held at the Kingdom Arena.
General context and importance of Koulibaly's return
Kalidou Koulibaly joined Al-Hilal in the summer of 2023 from English club Chelsea, in a deal that was one of the most significant transfers in the history of the Saudi Pro League. Koulibaly, captain of the Senegalese national team and winner of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, is considered one of the best defenders in the world, possessing extensive European experience gained from playing in major leagues with clubs such as Napoli in Italy and Chelsea in England. Since joining, Koulibaly has been a rock in Al-Hilal's back line, contributing his physical strength and ability to read the game to the team's best defensive record in the league so far.
Expected impact on Al-Hilal's journey
Domestically, Koulibaly's return bolsters Al Hilal's defense as they pursue the league title. The team currently leads the standings comfortably, and the return of one of their key defensive pillars provides coach Jorge Jesus with more options and strengthens the team in the final stretch of the season. Regionally, his return is of paramount importance as the AFC Champions League enters its knockout stages, with Al Hilal aiming to reclaim their continental title. A player of Koulibaly's caliber possesses the experience necessary for such high-stakes matches. Internationally, the availability of world-class players like Koulibaly raises the level of competition and attracts global attention to the Saudi Professional League, further solidifying its position as one of the world's premier leagues.
