Is it feasible to assemble a competitive squad ready to challenge European giants just before the Club World Cup?
Al-Hilal is attempting to prepare for this ambitious task, but results so far suggest they are falling short. While the Club World Cup excites bankers in Europe, it holds considerable significance in Saudi Arabia as a means of promoting the nation’s influence through sports. The goal is to disrupt the likes of Paris Saint-Germain or Manchester City at this prestigious tournament, appealing to the ambitions of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) which backs four major clubs in the Saudi Pro League.
The past year has seen teams such as Al-Ittihad capitalize on star power with players like Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante. Now, Al-Hilal, as the most decorated club in Asia, is focusing on building a stronger team with hopes of landing new talent leading up to the tournament’s first transfer deadline.
The current targets for Al-Hilal include bolstering their attacking line, midfield, and defense, and acquiring a head coach. So far, they have succeeded in hiring Simone Inzaghi as their head coach, making him the world’s most expensive coach. However, attracting high-profile players has been more problematic.
Negotiations around Cristiano Ronaldo indicate that while there was optimism for a loan deal to have him play in the Club World Cup, he remains committed to Al-Nassr and instead seeks additional reinforcements for his current squad. Al-Hilal’s primary aim also includes Victor Osimhen, with financial incentives expected to entice the Nigerian forward despite his current ties at Napoli.
The prospect of acquiring players like Angelino from Roma is looking more promising, though Theo Hernandez’s interest appears to be dwindling due to fears about his national team position ahead of the upcoming World Cup. They have already seen a substantial offer for Nuno Tavares rejected.
Furthermore, Bruno Fernandes dismissed an opportunity to join, which would have netted him close to $90 million a year. Meanwhile, players like Ruben Neves and Marcos Leonardo remain part of the existing framework, strengthening the overall quality of Al-Hilal’s lineup.
Despite the odds being stacked against them, Al-Hilal remains determined in their quest for new talent, aiming for surprise outcomes in the Club World Cup, where they already have a favorable chance to advance past the group stage.
