Football Season Guide

The most decorated Saudi team won the title in back-to-back seasons but last term they had to settle for the runners-up spot. Despite still having by far the most potent attack, 95 goals scored in 34 rounds with no other team scoring more than 80, they stayed full 8 points behind Al Ittihad due to their 5 defeats. Failed to win the Asian Champions League too, stunned in the semifinal by Kawasaki Frontale. These 2 major failures led to coach Jorge Jesus’s sacking. Replaced him with Simone Inzaghi, who after 4 successful years in charge of Inter decided to change scenery. Useful inner midfielder Al-Juwayr is the only notable player to leave this season. Splashed the cash on two new high-profile signings. Hernandez provides extra depth to already impressive back line. While big sum attracted striker Nunez from Liverpool. Now the goal-machine from the last 3 years Mitrovic can have support and viable back-up. Some foreigners will have to be dropped soon, or just left out of the Saudi Pro squad. Only 8 foreigners age 21 and older can be registered for the Saudi Pro league, currently Al Hilal have 11. Nunez’s arrival could see him thrown into domestic action, while the prolific star Mitrovic might be left out so he can focus all his attention on delivering the Asian Champions League trophy. The Blue Wave boast some of the wildest fans too and over the last 3 seasons they had the best home record in the entire world. Just 9 months ago set a new world record for 32 consecutive home wins in all competitions. Armed with everything they need Al Hilal are ready to challenge for all trophies on offer yet again.