Al-Hilal SFC has emerged as the most formidable force in world football outside Europe, boasting a squad worth over £229 million annually in wages alone. The Riyadh-based giants have assembled a constellation of international stars that would rival any Premier League club, fundamentally changing how football fans view Saudi Arabian football.
The Premier League Connection
Darwin Núñez’s Historic Move
The most significant transfer linking Al-Hilal to British football came in August 2025 when Liverpool striker Darwin Núñez joined the Saudi champions for €53 million. The Uruguayan forward, who cost Liverpool an initial £64 million from Benfica in 2022, had scored 40 goals in 143 appearances for the Reds before expressing his desire to leave Anfield.
Núñez’s departure from Liverpool represents a seismic shift in global football dynamics. The 26-year-old striker had been linked with Serie A champions Napoli earlier in the window, but Liverpool rejected their bid due to inadequate valuation and unfavourable payment terms that would have deferred funds until 2026. Al-Hilal’s immediate €53 million payment proved far more attractive to Liverpool’s board.
Since joining Al-Hilal, Núñez has adapted quickly to Saudi football, featuring in three matches and scoring once whilst providing goal-scoring threat in the final third. His presence has elevated Al-Hilal’s attacking options alongside established stars like Salem Al-Dawsari and Malcom.
The European Star Exodus
The signing of French international Theo Hernández from AC Milan for €25 million represents another coup for Al-Hilal. The attacking full-back, who earns €20 million annually in Saudi Arabia, consulted with teammate João Cancelo before making the move. Hernández admitted that Cancelo described the team as “excellent, filled with talented players” and praised Riyadh as “a beautiful city”.
Cancelo himself, the Portuguese defender formerly of Manchester City, has become instrumental in Al-Hilal’s recruitment strategy. The 31-year-old has featured in all matches this season, contributing five assists whilst providing defensive stability. His experience in English football has proven invaluable in helping new signings adapt to their Saudi adventure.
Squad Dynamics and Star Power
The Financial Powerhouse
Al-Hilal’s wage bill of £229 million annually places them among the world’s highest-spending clubs. The squad’s total market value reflects their ambition to compete with Europe’s elite, with individual player salaries that dwarf most Premier League wages.
Brazilian superstar Neymar remains the club’s highest-paid player, earning £1.6 million weekly – approximately £84 million annually. However, the former Paris Saint-Germain winger has been absent through injury, allowing other stars to showcase their talents.
Sergio Milinković-Savić stands as the squad’s creative heartbeat, earning €25 million yearly whilst delivering exceptional performances in midfield. The Serbian international has made over 100 appearances for Al-Hilal, contributing 29 goals and 25 assists since his arrival. His partnership with Portuguese midfielder Rúben Neves has formed one of world football’s most formidable central midfield combinations.
Defensive Excellence
Senegalese centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly anchors Al-Hilal’s defence with characteristic authority. The former Chelsea and Napoli defender has appeared in every match this season, providing leadership and aerial dominance that has proven crucial in big matches. His £34.7 million annual salary reflects his importance to the team’s structure.
Hassan Tambakti, earning €1.45 million annually, represents the best of Saudi defensive talent alongside international stars. The 26-year-old centre-back has featured prominently, contributing one goal whilst maintaining defensive solidity throughout the campaign.
Creative Forces
Malcom continues to terrorise defenders with his pace and creativity from wide positions. The Brazilian winger has scored three goals in three appearances this season, including two in recent matches that demonstrated his clinical finishing ability. His €17.66 million market value understates his importance to Al-Hilal’s attacking philosophy.
Salem Al-Dawsari remains Al-Hilal’s talisman and captain, providing three assists in three matches this season. The Saudi Arabian international forward has scored 77 goals in 259 appearances for his hometown club, embodying the connection between local talent and international ambition.
Historic European Conquest
Manchester City Shock
Al-Hilal’s 4-3 victory over Manchester City in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16 marked a watershed moment in world football. The Saudi champions became the first Asian club ever to defeat a European side in official FIFA competition, ending a streak of 20 consecutive matches without an AFC victory over UEFA opponents.
This historic triumph occurred in Orlando, where Al-Hilal’s tactical discipline and clinical finishing overcame Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City side that had dominated European football for the past decade. The victory shattered perceptions about Arab football being merely “a retirement league” and established Al-Hilal among global football’s elite.
The performance demonstrated that Al-Hilal’s squad possess both individual quality and collective tactical awareness necessary to compete with Europe’s finest. Their progression to face Chelsea in the quarterfinals provided further opportunity to prove their credentials against Premier League opposition.
Statistical Dominance
Comparing Al-Hilal’s trophy cabinet with European giants reveals surprising depth. The Riyadh club has won 56 domestic titles compared to Manchester City’s 32, whilst their eight international trophies exceed City’s four. Similarly, Al-Hilal’s 56 domestic titles surpass Paris Saint-Germain’s 51, with eight international trophies compared to PSG’s three.
These statistics, whilst not accounting for tournament prestige, demonstrate Al-Hilal’s sustained excellence across multiple decades. Their 21 Saudi Pro League titles represent the most successful domestic record in Saudi football history.
Transfer Market Influence
European Interest
Several Al-Hilal stars continue attracting European attention, particularly Rúben Neves. Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle United have all received updates regarding the Portuguese midfielder’s availability. With his contract expiring in summer 2026, Neves could provide an affordable solution for Premier League clubs seeking midfield reinforcement.
Juventus has expressed interest in Sergej Milinković-Savić, viewing the Serbian as an ideal addition to their midfield. His exceptional performances in Saudi Arabia – including 29 goals and 25 assists in 100 appearances – have maintained his reputation among Europe’s elite.
Youth Development
Al-Hilal’s commitment to developing young talent alongside international stars reflects their long-term vision. Players like Yusuf Akcicek, signed from Fenerbahçe for €25 million, represent investments in future potential rather than immediate impact. The 19-year-old Turkish defender embodies Al-Hilal’s strategy of combining established stars with promising youngsters.
Saudi regulations permit clubs to sign eight foreign players without age restrictions plus two additional players born in 2003 or later. This framework encourages investment in emerging talent whilst maintaining competitive squad strength through experienced internationals.
Tactical Evolution
Modern Football Philosophy
Al-Hilal’s tactical approach has evolved significantly under current management, blending Saudi football’s traditional strengths with contemporary European methods. The club’s ability to adapt different playing styles depending on opposition quality was evident in their Club World Cup success.
The integration of attacking full-backs like Theo Hernández and João Cancelo provides width in possession whilst offering defensive stability when required. Both players have contributed significantly in attack – Hernández scoring once and Cancelo providing five assists this season.
Central midfield partnerships between Milinković-Savić and Neves offer both creativity and physicality. Their combined experience in Serie A and Premier League respectively brings tactical sophistication that elevates Al-Hilal’s overall performance levels.
Player Adaptation
International stars have adapted remarkably well to Saudi football’s unique demands. Theo Hernández praised the league’s quality, stating “Saudi football has developed significantly. There are many quality players here”. His positive assessment reflects broader international recognition of the Saudi Pro League’s improving standards.
The presence of familiar faces like João Cancelo has smoothed transition periods for new signings. Hernández specifically mentioned consulting Cancelo before joining, highlighting how established players serve as ambassadors for the league.
Financial Impact and Global Recognition
Revenue Generation
Al-Hilal’s global appeal has attracted over 100 million viewers to recent Saudi Pro League broadcasts, demonstrating the commercial value of their star-studded squad. This viewership surge validates the Public Investment Fund’s strategy of investing heavily in international talent to raise the league’s profile.
The club’s wage bill of £229 million represents significant investment in player quality, with returns measured through increased global visibility and commercial opportunities. Individual player salaries often exceed those available in most European leagues outside England and Spain.
Cultural Bridge
Al-Hilal’s international roster has created cultural bridges between Saudi Arabia and footballing nations worldwide. French defender Theo Hernández, Serbian midfielder Milinković-Savić, and Portuguese duo Cancelo and Neves represent different European footballing traditions.
This cultural diversity enriches both the club’s internal dynamics and the broader Saudi Pro League experience. Players frequently praise the warm welcome received from local supporters, with Hernández noting “countless fans” sending messages of support via social media.
Future Prospects
Continued European Links
The connection between Al-Hilal and European football continues strengthening through player movements and tactical exchanges. Darwin Núñez’s successful adaptation from Liverpool demonstrates that Premier League players can thrive in Saudi Arabia whilst maintaining international ambitions.
Potential future departures of players like Neves to Manchester United or other Premier League clubs would further cement these connections. Such transfers create ongoing relationships between Al-Hilal and European giants, facilitating future player exchanges.
Domestic Integration
Al-Hilal’s success balances international star power with Saudi talent development. Local players like Salem Al-Dawsari and Hassan Tambakti continue playing crucial roles alongside foreign stars. This integration ensures the club maintains its Saudi identity whilst competing globally.
The club’s commitment to nurturing young Saudi players alongside international stars creates pathways for domestic talent to reach world-class levels. This approach benefits both Al-Hilal and the Saudi national team, strengthening football’s overall development in the Kingdom.
For more UK football culture and fan insights, explore these related reads: Mason’s Liverpool, DCBL Stadium visitor guide, Peaky Blinders Bar Liverpool, and Philharmonic Hall Liverpool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the highest-paid Al-Hilal players?
The highest-paid players include Neymar (£1.6 million weekly), Kalidou Koulibaly (€34.7 million annually), Sergej Milinković-Savić (€25 million yearly), and Theo Hernández (€20 million per season).
Which Premier League players have joined Al-Hilal recently?
Darwin Núñez joined from Liverpool for €53 million in August 2025, becoming the most significant Premier League-to-Al-Hilal transfer. João Cancelo, formerly of Manchester City, also plays for the Saudi champions.
How did Al-Hilal beat Manchester City in the Club World Cup?
Al-Hilal defeated Manchester City 4-3 in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16, becoming the first Asian club to beat a European team in official FIFA competition. The victory ended a 20-match winless streak for Asian clubs against European opponents.
What is Al-Hilal’s total wage bill?
Al-Hilal’s annual wage bill totals £229 million, making them one of the world’s highest-spending football clubs. Their weekly wage expenditure reaches £4.4 million across the entire squad.
Are any Al-Hilal players linked with returns to European football?
Rúben Neves has attracted interest from Manchester United, Tottenham, and Newcastle United, with his contract expiring in 2026. Sergej Milinković-Savić is also wanted by Juventus for a potential January move.
To Read More- Liverpooldaily
Leave a Reply