Al-Hilal’s Rise: Asia’s First Super Club Leading Saudi Football’s Global Charge

Saudi Arabian football witnessed a landmark moment this week, as Al-Hilal’s rise was further solidified on the global stage. The Riyadh giants shocked Europe’s elite by defeating Manchester City 4-3 in the Club World Cup, a feat that underscored their growing stature.

Fans across Saudi Arabia celebrated a historic victory that propelled Al-Hilal into the tournament’s quarter-finals. This triumph over European competition represents more than just a football result — it signals a shift in the balance of power.

Al-Hilal’s Unstoppable Momentum

Al-Hilal’s rise has been fuelled by strategic investments and astute leadership. After securing draws against Real Madrid and Red Bull Salzburg in their U.S. tour, Hilal advanced from the group stage with a spirited victory over Mexico’s Pachuca.

This progression has imbued the team with self-belief as they prepare to face Fluminense in the next round. The four-time Asian champions are no longer content with regional glory — their sights are firmly set on global recognition.

The Super Club Status Becomes Reality

Professor Simon Chadwick, a noted expert in international sport, declared Al-Hilal to be Asia’s first genuine super club. This transformation has been shaped by more than financial muscle. Since Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) acquired the club in 2023, stability, professionalism, and vision have driven its rise.

A Star-Studded Squad with Depth

The Al-Hilal rise has been underpinned by intelligent squad-building. Veterans like Joao Cancelo and Kalidou Koulibaly provide leadership at the back. In their prime, stars such as Ruben Neves, Aleksandar Mitrovic, and Malcom contribute quality across the pitch. Meanwhile, emerging talents like Marcos Leonardo ensure the club’s future remains bright.

Neymar’s Brief Chapter

Neymar’s stint with Hilal, though plagued by injury, was part of this ambitious project. His return to Santos marked the end of a chapter, but Hilal’s ambition continues. The club’s recruitment strategy is now focused on balancing star power with youth potential.

The Broader Saudi Pro League Transformation

Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival at Al-Nassr in 2022 was the catalyst that changed the Saudi Pro League’s global image. His endorsement of the league as one of the world’s top five competitions highlighted its rapid evolution.

Big Names, Big Dreams

The SPL has attracted global stars at a scale rivaling Europe’s top leagues. From Riyad Mahrez and Karim Benzema to Joao Cancelo and N’Golo Kante, the roster of talent now competing in Saudi Arabia is astonishing.

Spending Power That Shakes the Market

In 2023, Saudi clubs spent an estimated £700m during the transfer window. The following year saw further high-profile additions including Ivan Toney, Moussa Diaby, and Steven Bergwijn. This reflects a strategic commitment to elevate the league’s quality.

Eyeing New Signings for the Future

Al-Hilal’s rise could be further bolstered by potential signings like Victor Osimhen, Son Heung-min, or Darwin Nunez. The club’s pursuit of top-tier attackers is set to continue as they aim to replace Neymar and solidify their global standing.

PIF’s Expanding Influence

The Public Investment Fund’s ownership extends beyond Hilal to Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli. This has created a core of powerful clubs that are reshaping the footballing landscape in Asia and beyond.

Neom SC: The Club for a Future City

Neom SC’s promotion marks another intriguing chapter. Representing a futuristic city still under development, Neom SC’s ambitious project includes marquee signings like Alexandre Lacazette and promises to play a role in the region’s footballing future.

Challenges at National Level

Despite club success, the Saudi national team faces hurdles. After failing to secure direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup, the Green Falcons must navigate the play-offs. The heavy influx of foreign attackers has limited opportunities for domestic forwards, a point raised by former managers Roberto Mancini and Herve Renard.

A Changing Dynamic for Local Players

Firas Al-Buraikan’s journey reflects this tension. Once a rising star, his role diminished following high-profile signings, illustrating the challenges for Saudi players seeking to thrive amid international competition.

The Global Vision

Whatever the immediate results on the pitch, Al-Hilal’s rise embodies Saudi Arabia’s broader vision: to build football clubs that can compete with Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and other global giants. The strategy blends investment, infrastructure, and ambition to create a lasting football legacy.

Al-Hilal rise: Asia’s first super club reshaping football