Latest news with #Al‑Hilal
Time of India
2 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Al-Hilal withdraws from 2025 Saudi Super Cup citing fatigue, sparks debate on player welfare
Al‑Hilal will not participate in the 2025 Saudi Super Cup in Hong Kong/Image: Instagram TL;DR: Al‑Hilal will not participate in the 2025 Saudi Super Cup in Hong Kong due to severe player fatigue and leave shortfall. Flight delays and Club World Cup travel reduced annual leave to 21‑24 days, breaching SAFF 's minimum 28‑day requirement. Medical reviews confirmed 'extreme fatigue' after more than a year of back-to-back competition. SAFF may impose fines up to SAR 500,000 and appoint Al‑Ahli as replacement. The move underscores prioritizing player health and contract compliance over participation in exhibition tournaments. Saudi football powerhouse Al-Hilal has officially pulled out of the 2025 Saudi Super Cup, citing player exhaustion following a tightly packed season and insufficient rest time after their Club World Cup appearance in the United States. The club notified the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) that participation would breach player leave entitlements and health protocols, making them unfit for additional competition. Club Statement and Reasoning In a formal communication to SAFF, Al-Hilal laid out a detailed explanation for its decision. The club argued that its players had just concluded a strenuous international campaign at the FIFA Club World Cup, and were entitled to a minimum of 28 days of annual leave, as mandated under SAFF's Professionalism and Player Status Regulations. However, due to scheduling and travel complications, the players would only receive 21 days of rest if they went ahead with the Super Cup. The club's medical staff also issued warnings over widespread physical fatigue among key players, following nearly 12 months of uninterrupted domestic and international competition. Citing player safety and long-term performance, Al-Hilal decided that withdrawing was in the best interest of both its players and Saudi football. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Libas Purple Days Sale Libas Undo Why Was This Decision Made Now? The tipping point came with overlapping schedules. The Super Cup draw took place on June 19, just a day after Al-Hilal began its Club World Cup campaign. Following their elimination on July 4, players were delayed an extra three days in the US due to limited flights. This narrowed the rest period significantly. Further complicating matters, the final Super Cup venue, Hong Kong, was confirmed only on June 13, which gave clubs minimal preparation time and forced logistical adjustments mid-season. Who Is Al-Hilal? Al-Hilal SFC, based in Riyadh, is not just any football club. With a history spanning over six decades, it is one of the most decorated clubs in Asia: Five-time Saudi Super Cup champions (as of 2024) 19 Saudi Pro League titles Multiple AFC Champions League victories A consistent contributor to Saudi Arabia's national team player pool Known for its deep fanbase and star-studded squad, Al-Hilal is the Gulf's flagship football brand, having recently signed global icons and competed against teams like Real Madrid and Manchester City on the world stage. SAFF Response and Rule Violation SAFF acknowledged Al-Hilal's official withdrawal and stated that it would address the matter under the existing disciplinary framework. According to Article 8 of the Saudi Super Cup Regulations, any team pulling out after the tournament draw may face fines up to SAR 500,000 and exclusion from the next edition. The federation is now exploring alternatives, with reports suggesting that Al-Ahli could step in to replace Al-Hilal, provided they meet readiness requirements. Why It Matters Player Welfare at the Forefront This move marks a rare but growing trend among top-tier clubs: putting player health above short-term trophies. With global football becoming more congested, Al-Hilal's stance could influence scheduling reforms in the region. A Blow to Tournament Prestige Al-Hilal's exit removes one of the biggest draws from the Saudi Super Cup, potentially affecting ticket sales, broadcast value, and the event's international appeal. National Team Priorities The Saudi national team has World Cup qualifiers lined up later this year. Many of Al-Hilal's players are central to coach Roberto Mancini's plans, and this break gives them time to recover before crucial matches. Club vs. Federation Tensions? The decision also hints at ongoing friction between clubs and organizers regarding player welfare, calendar planning, and communication transparency. Al-Hilal's withdrawal from the Saudi Super Cup is more than a scheduling clash, it's a bold statement on how Gulf football is evolving. With elite clubs now balancing commercial obligations against player burnout, this episode may prompt serious introspection within SAFF and beyond. The coming weeks will reveal whether this sparks meaningful change, or if the weight of tradition and tournament prestige overrides concerns of fatigue and fairness.
CairoScene
15-07-2025
- Sport
- CairoScene
Jorge Jesus Returns to Saudi League as Al-Nassr's New Coach
The 70‑year‑old coach returns to Riyadh with a one‑year deal, replacing Stefano Pioli after leading Al‑Hilal to a domestic treble and an AFC semi‑final berth. Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus has officially signed a one-year contract to lead Al‑Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, following his departure from rival club Al‑Hilal two months ago. His previous season with Al‑Hilal was marked by success - a domestic treble and a deep run in the AFC Champions League - before he exited in May after a semifinal defeat to Al‑Ahli. Al‑Nassr confirmed the signing in a post on X (formerly Twitter), noting that the move is intended to revitalise their coaching staff under the management of Stefano Pioli's predecessor . The reigning nine-time Saudi champions also recently extended Cristiano Ronaldo's contract.
Time of India
10-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
From Al Hilal to Al Nassr: The top 10 football clubs in the Gulf you should know in 2025
Top Gulf football clubs like Al Nassr are attracting global attention with star players and major investments/Image Credits: X The Gulf's football scene is heating up, driven by investment, continental ambitions, and growing local passion. These ten clubs lead the charge: 1. Al‑Hilal (Saudi Arabia) Saudi's elite club/Image: Wikipedia Elite status: Record 19 Saudi Pro League titles and 11 King's Cups. Most successful club in Asian history with 4 AFC Champions League trophies (1991, 2000, 2019, 2021) Recently knocked Barcelona off its pedestal by beating Manchester City at the Club World Cup, showcasing the Saudi Pro League 's rise. Impact: Backed by Saudi's Public Investment Fund, they're blending legacy with world-class stars like João Cancelo, Kalidou Koulibaly, Yassine Bounou, and Rúben Neves. This strategy has transformed them into a global brand and continental benchmark. 2. Al‑Ahli (Saudi Arabia) Recent AFC title/Image: Wikipedia Revival story: After being relegated in 2022, they swung back with the 2025 AFC Champions League Elite title, overcoming Japan's Kawasaki Frontale. Key factor: S trong investment post-2023, landing stars like Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, and Ivan Toney; their journey 'completes a crazy journey', says coach Matthias Jaissle. 3. Al‑Ittihad (Saudi Arabia) Jeddah's champion club/Image: Wikipedia Champion pedigree: Two-time AFC Champions League winners (2004, 2005) Nine Saudi Pro League titles; current title contenders Momentum: Garden of strong local support and renewed ambition—set to be a major rival in continental competitions. 4. Al‑Nassr (Saudi Arabia) Star-studded club/Image: Wikipedia Global draw: Nine league titles, Arab Club Champions Cup winners Injected star power with Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mané, and clinched their place in the 2025 ACL Elite quarter-finals Regional role : They're a high-profile brand attracting global sponsors, but performance expectations remain high. 5. Al‑Ain (UAE) Famous for ending unbeaten streaks/Image: Wikipedia Domestic power: 14 UAE Pro League titles and two ACL trophies (2003, 2024) Famous for eliminating Ronaldo's Al‑Nassr in the 2024 ACL quarter-finals ending Al‑Hilal's 34-match unbeaten streak Legacy: Well-structured academy, disciplined management, and consistent performance have cemented their influence. 6. Shabab Al‑Ahli (UAE) Dubai's powerhouse club/Image: Wikipedia Dubai's powerhouse: Nine Pro League titles, multiple domestic cups, and an IFFHS ranking among Asia's top clubs Influence: Strong grassroots development, youth systems, and a fan-centric model maintain their elite status. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo 7. Al‑Wasl (UAE) Dubai's Club of the Century/Image: Wikipedia Cultural icon: Seven Pro League titles and a revered legacy since the 1960s Local impact: "Club of the Century" in Dubai, nurtures homegrown talent and inspires local support and identity. 8. Al‑Nasr SC (UAE) One of the UAE's oldest clubs/Image: Wikipedia Foundational strength: One of the UAE's oldest clubs, founded in 1945, with multiple league successes Role: Maintains firm grassroots presence, develops local talent, and contributes heavily to Dubai's football narrative. 9. Al‑Sadd (Qatar) Qatar's continental club/Image: Wikipedia Continental star: Qatar Stars League leader with 64 domestic trophies Twice Asian champions (1989, 2011) Significance: Boosted by post‑World Cup infrastructure and deepened regional appeal, Al‑Sadd remains Qatar's dominant force. 10. Al‑Rayyan (Qatar) Known for consistent performance and legacy/Image: Wikipedia Traditional heavyweights: Eight league titles, six Emir Cup wins, and home of Ahmad bin Ali Stadium Presence: Deep local roots, fan-based momentum, and consistent top-tier performance define their legacy. Why These Clubs Matter in the Gulf Today Continental dominance: Saudi clubs lead with multiple ACL medals and Club World Cup breakthroughs Financial firepower: Backed by PIF and big names, Gulf leagues now attract stars away from Europe Cultural engines: UAE clubs to Qatar's post‑World Cup momentum, football is shaping national identity Tourism & youth impact: Clubs are key to sports tourism and building youth engagement across the Gulf
Time of India
10-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Top 10 football clubs in the Gulf
The Gulf's football scene is heating up, driven by investment, continental ambitions, and growing local passion. These ten clubs lead the charge: 1. Al‑Hilal (Saudi Arabia) Saudi's premium club/Image: Wikipedia Elite status: Record 19 Saudi Pro League titles and 11 King's Cups. Most successful club in Asian history with 4 AFC Champions League trophies (1991, 2000, 2019, 2021) Recently knocked Barcelona off its pedestal by beating Manchester City at the Club World Cup, showcasing the Saudi Pro League 's rise. Impact: Backed by Saudi's Public Investment Fund, they're blending legacy with world-class stars like João Cancelo, Kalidou Koulibaly, Yassine Bounou, and Rúben Neves. This strategy has transformed them into a global brand and continental benchmark. 2. Al‑Ahli (Saudi Arabia) AFC champions/Image: Wikipedia Revival story: After being relegated in 2022, they swung back with the 2025 AFC Champions League Elite title, overcoming Japan's Kawasaki Frontale. Key factor: S trong investment post-2023, landing stars like Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, and Ivan Toney; their journey 'completes a crazy journey', says coach Matthias Jaissle. 3. Al‑Ittihad (Saudi Arabia) Jeddah's champion club/Image: Wikipedia Champion pedigree: Two-time AFC Champions League winners (2004, 2005) Nine Saudi Pro League titles; current title contenders Momentum: Garden of strong local support and renewed ambition—set to be a major rival in continental competitions. 4. Al‑Nassr (Saudi Arabia) Riyadh's high-profile club/Image: Wikipedia Global draw: Nine league titles, Arab Club Champions Cup winners Injected star power with Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mané, and clinched their place in the 2025 ACL Elite quarter-finals Regional role : They're a high-profile brand attracting global sponsors, but performance expectations remain high. 5. Al‑Ain (UAE) UAE's domestic powerhouse/Image: Wikipedia Domestic power: 14 UAE Pro League titles and two ACL trophies (2003, 2024) Famous for eliminating Ronaldo's Al‑Nassr in the 2024 ACL quarter-finals ending Al‑Hilal's 34-match unbeaten streak Legacy: Well-structured academy, disciplined management, and consistent performance have cemented their influence. 6. Shabab Al‑Ahli (UAE) Dubai's powerhouse/Image: Wikipedia Dubai's powerhouse: Nine Pro League titles, multiple domestic cups, and an IFFHS ranking among Asia's top clubs Influence: Strong grassroots development, youth systems, and a fan-centric model maintain their elite status. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like The Most Successful Way of Intraday Trading is "Market Profile" TradeWise Learn More Undo 7. Al‑Wasl (UAE) Dubai's Club of the Century/Image: Wikipedia Cultural icon: Seven Pro League titles and a revered legacy since the 1960s Local impact: "Club of the Century" in Dubai, nurtures homegrown talent and inspires local support and identity. 8. Al‑Nasr SC (UAE) One of the UAE's oldest clubs/Image: Wikipedia Foundational strength: One of the UAE's oldest clubs, founded in 1945, with multiple league successes Role: Maintains firm grassroots presence, develops local talent, and contributes heavily to Dubai's football narrative. 9. Al‑Sadd (Qatar) Qatar's continental star/Image: Wikipedia Continental star: Qatar Stars League leader with 64 domestic trophies Twice Asian champions (1989, 2011) Significance: Boosted by post‑World Cup infrastructure and deepened regional appeal, Al‑Sadd remains Qatar's dominant force. 10. Al‑Rayyan (Qatar) Famous for consistent performance and legacy/Image: Wikipedia Traditional heavyweights: Eight league titles, six Emir Cup wins, and home of Ahmad bin Ali Stadium Presence: Deep local roots, fan-based momentum, and consistent top-tier performance define their legacy. Why These Clubs Matter in the Gulf Today Continental dominance: Saudi clubs lead with multiple ACL medals and Club World Cup breakthroughs Financial firepower: Backed by PIF and big names, Gulf leagues now attract stars away from Europe Cultural engines: UAE clubs to Qatar's post‑World Cup momentum, football is shaping national identity Tourism & youth impact: Clubs are key to sports tourism and building youth engagement across the Gulf
Business Upturn
27-06-2025
- Sport
- Business Upturn
Who is Gonzalo Garcia? The 21‑year‑old striker sparks Real Madrid's revival
Madrid has completed the qualification to the knockout stage of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 after their 3-0 win over RB Salzburg. Real Madrid's FIFA Club World Cup campaign kicked off in Miami with a dramatic 1–1 draw against Al‑Hilal, but it was 21‑year‑old academy standout Gonzalo García who stole the spotlight, scoring Madrid's opener in what may turn out to be a defining moment in his early senior career. In his first senior start under new coach Xabi Alonso, and with Kylian Mbappé sidelined by illness, García took full advantage of the opportunity. At the 34th minute mark, he finished a swift counter started by Rodrygo, calmly chipping the ball past the Al‑Hilal goalkeeper to give Real Madrid the lead . His finish, though not the cleanest, showcased a composure beyond his years. Advertisement Born in Madrid in March 2004, García has been nurtured through Real's famed La Fábrica academy since 2014, with a brief stint at Mallorca before returning to climb the ranks to Castilla. In his breakthrough season (2024–25), he netted 25 goals in 36 appearances for the reserves, earning himself a promotion and catching the senior squad's attention. Earlier this year, he grabbed the headlines by scoring a dramatic late winner in the Copa del Rey quarter‑finals .
