Al-Hilal had a stellar 2023-24 season. They won every domestic trophy available and remained unbeaten throughout. They have finished with 59 points in 30 games in the Saudi Pro League in the 2022-23 season but improved to a whopping 96 points from 34 games last season.
They won 31 of their 34 league games, drawing the other three. They also won the Saudi Super Cup, beating Al-Ittihad 4-1 in the final. They also beat Al-Nassr on penalties in the final of the King Cup of Champions.
The only negative in their season was a surprise elimination from the AFC Champions League in the semi-final against Al-Ain. They lost the first leg 4-2 but could only manage a 2-1 win in the second leg, losing 5-3 on aggregate.
It’s fair to say that Al-Hilal benefitted massively from the rise of the popularity of football in Saudi Arabia and the arrival of big stars from across Europe. However, the Blue Waves also found a good balance between European stars and Saudi Arabian excellence. This helped them stay consistent throughout the season.
With the 2024-25 season upon us, Jorge Jesus’ side will look to strengthen their side further, defend their titles, and even add the AFC Champions League trophy.
Also Read: Saudi Pro League Transfer Window Predictions 2024: Big Players Who Could Move
Transfer Strategy
Al-Hilal spent around €6 million on transfers in the 2022-23 season. However, last season, they spent a mind-boggling €376 million on new players like Aleksandar Mitrovic, Neymar, and Ruben Neves.
This trend is expected to continue this season as well but the price could go down a bit. They have already built an excellent team and arguably just need minor additions rather than some big changes. They will, however, still look to bring in some big names this summer from European football.
Areas for Improvement
Goalkeeping
Al-Hilal signed Yassine Bonou last summer and he has been phenomenal for the club so far. Not only has he performed well between the sticks, but he’s also marshaled the backline well. Hence, the club look well-settled in the goalkeeping position.
Defense
The Blue Waves had the best defense in the Saudi Pro League last season, conceding just 23 goals in 34 league games. The likes of Kalidou Koulibaly and Ali Al-Bulayhi performed exceptionally well.
Unless there is a big sale, it’s unlikely that they will look for a big signing in defense. They could look to add backups in the fullback position though.
Midfield
Midfield was arguably Jorge Jesus’ side’s best area last season. The likes of Ruben Neves and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic controlled the midfield really well while also providing protection to the back line.
They could look to add an attacking midfielder to the lineup. This would also depend on Neymar’s fitness and the position he would play. He played just four games last season before missing out due to an ACL injury. He is expected to return next season and will likely play as a second striker.
Attack
Along with top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic, the likes of Salem Al-Dawsari and Nasser Al Dawsari also played well for Al-Hilal last season.
They would, however, like to add a backup striker for Mitrovic. They could also persist with Neymar as a false nine but given his injury history, they will likely strengthen their attack.
Top Targets
Al-Hilal have been linked with loads of players, especially in the attacking area. They have been linked with Joao Felix, who is looking to leave Atletico Madrid. He spent the 2023-24 season on loan at Barcelona and the Blaugrana haven’t purchased him permanently so far.
Joao Cancelo, who also spent last season on loan at Barcelona from Manchester City, has been linked with a move to the Blue Waves. They have also been linked with Casemiro, who had a poor 2023-24 season with Manchester United.
Rafael Leao has also been linked with a move away from AC Milan and could move to Saudi Arabia this summer. Meanwhile, Napoli are expecting offers for striker Victor Osimhen. Tottenham Hotspur are also open to selling Richarlison for a big offer and Luis Castro’s side have been linked with a potential move for the Brazilian.
They have also been linked with Barcelona winger Raphinha and Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah.
Financial Capabilities
Al-Hilal spent over €370 million last summer on bringing players in. They are likely to continue in the same vein this summer as well. With the growth of football in Saudi Arabia, the clubs are looking to take full benefit of the surge.
Moreover, Al-Hilal won three trophies last season. It will also allow them to attract big players. However, their squad arguably doesn’t need a major overhaul and a few signings could help them strengthen the team for another title challenge.
This could change though if they sell some players. The likes of Kalidou Koulibaly have been linked with an exit, which could lead to the Blue Waves spending more. But it is unlikely to tough the €370 million mark, which included €90 million for Neymar Jr.