Al Hilal Saudi Football Club, fondly known as Al-Zaeem (The Leader) or the Blue Waves, is a powerhouse in Saudi Arabian and Asian football. Based in Riyadh, this multi-sport club has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1957. Renowned for its dominance in the Saudi Pro League, Al Hilal has garnered a massive fanbase, not only in Saudi Arabia but across the globe, thanks to its consistent success and high-profile signings.
In the 2024-25 season, Al Hilal continued to make waves with a star-studded squad, blending international talent with homegrown stars. This article dives deep into the current Al Hilal SFC squad, their key players, recent performances, and answers to the most frequently asked questions about the team on platforms like YouTube and Google.
The Legacy of Al Hilal SFC
Founded on October 16, 1957, Al Hilal has grown from a small club to one of the most decorated teams in Asian football. The club’s name, meaning “The Crescent” in Arabic, reflects its cultural significance and royal patronage, notably from King Saud, who renamed the club in 1958. Al Hilal has won the Saudi Pro League 19 times, including the inaugural edition in 1976-77, and has clinched numerous domestic and international titles, including four AFC Champions League trophies. The club’s home ground, the Kingdom Arena, with a capacity of 30,000, is a fortress where fans create an electrifying atmosphere.
The 2024-25 season marks Al Hilal’s 49th consecutive year in the top flight of Saudi football, with participation in the Saudi Pro League, King Cup, AFC Champions League Elite, Saudi Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup. With a market value of €242.5 million, the highest in Saudi Arabia, Al Hilal’s squad is a blend of experience, youth, and global stardom.
Al Hilal SFC Squad Overview for 2024-25
The 2024-25 Al Hilal squad is a mix of world-class international players and talented Saudi nationals, with 17 national team players in the roster. The squad size is 30, with an average age of 26.7 years and a total market value of €180 million. The team includes 10 foreign players, adhering to the Saudi Pro League’s regulations, and is coached by Mohammad Al-Shalhoub, a club legend. Below is a detailed breakdown of the squad by position, focusing on key players, their roles, and their contributions.
Goalkeepers
Al Hilal’s goalkeeping department is led by seasoned professionals who provide stability at the back. The primary goalkeeper is Yassine Bounou, known as Bono, a Moroccan international with a reputation for clutch saves. Bono, aged 33, has a market value of €8 million and a contract until June 2026. His experience in La Liga with Sevilla and his heroics for Morocco in the 2022 FIFA World Cup make him a cornerstone of Al Hilal’s defense. Other goalkeepers include Mohammed Al-Rubaie and Habib Al-Wotayan, both Saudi nationals providing depth and local talent.
Defenders
The defensive line is a blend of solidity and versatility, with João Cancelo leading the backline. The Portuguese star, aged 30, joined Al Hilal on loan from Manchester City and brings elite ball-playing ability and attacking flair from the full-back position. His market value is €25 million, and his contract with Al Hilal runs until June 2025. Other notable defenders include:
Kalidou Koulibaly (Senegal, 33 years, €10 million, contract until June 2026): A commanding center-back known for his physicality and leadership, Koulibaly anchors the defense.
Ali Al-Bulaihi (Saudi Arabia, 35 years, €0.5 million, contract until June 2025): A veteran Saudi defender who provides experience and grit.
Hassan Tambakti (Saudi Arabia, 25 years, €8 million, contract until June 2027): A rising star in Saudi football, Tambakti is known for his composure and versatility.
Mohammed Al-Burayk (Saudi Arabia, 32 years, €1.2 million, contract until June 2025): A reliable right-back with strong crossing ability. The defensive unit is well-balanced, combining international experience with local talent, making Al Hilal one of the toughest teams to break down in the Saudi Pro League.
Midfielders
Al Hilal’s midfield is a powerhouse, blending creativity, work rate, and goal-scoring ability. Sergej Milinković-Savić, the Serbian midfielder aged 29, is a standout with a market value of €35 million and a contract until June 2026. Known for his physicality, vision, and goal-scoring prowess, Milinković-Savić is one of the highest-rated players in the squad, as per EA Sports FC 25 ratings. Other key midfielders include:
Rúben Neves (Portugal, 27 years, €32 million, contract until June 2026): A deep-lying playmaker with exceptional passing range, Neves controls the tempo of Al Hilal’s game.
Mohamed Kanno (Saudi Arabia, 30 years, €4 million, contract until June 2025): A versatile box-to-box midfielder who brings energy and tenacity.
Nasser Al-Dawsari (Saudi Arabia, 26 years, €1.5 million, contract until June 2027): A dynamic midfielder known for his work rate and defensive contributions.
The midfield’s depth allows Al Hilal to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities, with players like Milinković-Savić and Neves capable of turning games with a single pass or goal.
Forwards
Al Hilal’s attacking line is arguably the most exciting in the Saudi Pro League, led by global superstar Neymar Jr., the Brazilian forward aged 32. Despite injury concerns, Neymar remains the highest-rated player in the squad, with a market value of €45 million and a contract until June 2025. His flair, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability make him a fan favorite, though his availability has been limited in recent seasons. Other forwards include:
Aleksandar Mitrović (Serbia, 30 years, €25 million, contract until June 2026): A prolific striker who leads Al Hilal’s scoring charts, Mitrović’s physical presence and finishing make him a constant threat.
Malcom (Brazil, 28 years, €25 million, contract until June 2027): A versatile winger known for his speed and creativity, Malcom has adapted well to the Saudi Pro League.
Marcos Leonardo (Brazil, 22 years, €20 million, contract until June 2029): A young, dynamic forward with immense potential, Leonardo is one to watch for the future.
Salem Al-Dawsari (Saudi Arabia, 33 years, €1.8 million, contract until June 2025): A club legend and Saudi international, Al-Dawsari’s leadership and clutch performances are invaluable.
Mohammed Al-Qahtani (Saudi Arabia, 22 years, €0.4 million, contract until June 2025): A promising young forward breaking into the first team. This attacking lineup combines experience, youth, and star power, making Al Hilal a formidable force in front of goal.
Recent Performances and Key Matches
In the 2024-25 Saudi Pro League season, Al Hilal has continued its dominance, with a recent 4-0 victory over Al-Orubah showcasing their attacking prowess. The team’s next scheduled match is against Al-Fateh on May 16, 2025, at 3:55 PM UTC, where fans can expect live updates on platforms like Sofascore. Al Hilal’s performance graph, based on Sofascore’s algorithm, indicates strong form, with the team excelling in possession, passing accuracy, and goal-scoring efficiency.
The club’s participation in the AFC Champions League Elite and the FIFA Club World Cup adds to the excitement, with the group stage draw for the latter held on December 5, 2024, and matches set to begin on June 18, 2025. Al Hilal’s ability to compete on multiple fronts is a testament to the squad’s depth and quality.
Transfer Activity and Market Values
Al Hilal’s transfer record for the 2024-25 season shows a net spend of €-88.10 million (approximately ₹-704.84 Cr), reflecting significant investment in the squad. Key arrivals include João Cancelo (on loan) and Marcos Leonardo, while departures include players like Abdullah Al-Malki and Khalid Al-Ghannam (on loan to Al-Ettifaq and Al-Shabab, respectively). The club’s high market value is driven by stars like Neymar, Milinković-Savić, and Neves, with the Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) calculated by models like FootballTransfers.com highlighting their worth.
Youth Development and Academy Prospects
Al Hilal’s youth academy is a cornerstone of the club’s success, producing talents like Mohammed Al-Qahtani and Hassan Tambakti. The club’s U19 and U17 teams continue to develop players who feed into the first team, maintaining a balance between local talent and international signings. The academy’s success is evident in players like Salem Al-Dawsari, who has become a club legend.
Challenges and Expectations for 2024-25
Despite their dominance, Al Hilal faces challenges, including maintaining consistency across multiple competitions and managing injuries to key players like Neymar. The Saudi Pro League is becoming increasingly competitive, with rivals like Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad bolstered by their own high-profile signings. Fans expect Al Hilal to retain the league title, win the King Cup, and make a deep run in the AFC Champions League Elite and FIFA Club World Cup.
The club’s financial muscle, with a transfer record reflecting significant investment, positions them well to meet these expectations. However, the pressure to perform on all fronts requires tactical acumen from coach Mohammad Al-Shalhoub and resilience from the squad.
Fan Culture and Global Reach
Al Hilal’s fanbase, known as the Blue Waves, is one of the most passionate in Asia. YouTube channels dedicated to Al Hilal provide match highlights, player interviews, and fan reactions, contributing to the club’s global reach. The Kingdom Arena’s atmosphere, often showcased in videos, is a testament to the fans’ unwavering support. Social media platforms like X also buzz with discussions about Al Hilal’s performances, with fans praising stars like Mitrović and debating tactical decisions.
FAQs
Who are the highest-rated Al Hilal players in EA Sports FC 25?
According to EA Sports FC 25, the top-rated players are Neymar Jr., João Cancelo, and Sergej Milinković-Savić. These ratings reflect their Gold, Silver, and Bronze Player Items in Ultimate Team at launch, with Neymar leading due to his exceptional attacking attributes.
What are the latest transfer rumors surrounding Al Hilal?
Recent transfer rumors have linked Al Hilal with additional high-profile signings, though no major deals were confirmed post-January 2025. Fans on YouTube often discuss potential targets like European stars or young South American talents, with Transfermarkt and FootballTransfers.com being key sources for updates.
How is Neymar performing for Al Hilal?
Neymar’s performances have been a hot topic due to his injury history. While he remains a game-changer when fit, his limited appearances in the 2024-25 season have sparked debates among fans. YouTube videos often highlight his dribbling and goals, with some questioning his long-term future at the club.
Who are Al Hilal’s top goal scorers and assist providers?
Aleksandar Mitrović leads the goal-scoring charts, with Malcom and Salem Al-Dawsari contributing significantly in attack. Assist providers include Rúben Neves and Neymar, whose vision and passing create numerous opportunities. Sofascore provides live updates on these stats during matches.
What is the current form of Al Hilal’s squad?
Al Hilal’s recent form is strong, with the team maintaining an unbeaten run in the Saudi Pro League as of May 2025. Their 4-0 win against Al-Orubah and consistent performances in the AFC Champions League Elite highlight their depth and quality. Fans can track live scores and player ratings on platforms like Sofascore and ESPN.
In Summary
Al Hilal SFC’s 2024-25 squad is a perfect blend of global superstars and homegrown talent, poised to dominate Saudi and Asian football. With players like Neymar Jr., João Cancelo, and Aleksandar Mitrović leading the charge, and a strong supporting cast of Saudi internationals, the Blue Waves are a force to be reckoned with.
Their recent performances, high market value, and passionate fanbase make them a focal point of football discussions on platforms like YouTube. As the season progresses, Al Hilal’s journey in the Saudi Pro League, AFC Champions League Elite, and FIFA Club World Cup will continue to captivate fans worldwide.
To read more, Click Here .
