In a move that underscores its ambitious strategy of building a team that blends experience with young talent, the board of directors of Al-Hilal Club , chaired by Mr. Fahad bin Nafel, announced the completion of the signing of young French striker Mohamed Kader Meïté . The promising player's contract extends for three and a half years, and he joins from Stade Rennais, one of the leading clubs in European talent development.

Who is Mohamed Kader Meiti? A French talent in the Riyadh sky

Eighteen-year-old Mohamed Kader Meïté is one of the rising stars of French football. He came through the ranks at the prestigious Stade Rennais academy, progressing through all age groups to the first team, demonstrating his exceptional technical ability. His international career is equally impressive, having represented France at the under-16, under-17, under-19, and under-21 levels, indicating his potential for the future of French football. This season, Meïté has made 19 appearances for his club, scoring three goals and providing two assists, proving his ability to make a significant impact in the attacking third despite his young age.

A strategic deal: The implications of Mete's move to Al-Hilal

This signing is not merely a numerical addition to Al-Hilal's ranks, but a strategic investment for the future. While Al-Hilal already boasts world-class attacking talent, the acquisition of Mete adds youth, dynamism, and speed, providing the team with diverse tactical options. This deal also reflects the club's vision of building a sustainable team capable of competing at all levels, both domestically and continentally, for years to come, by balancing the acquisition of established stars with the development of promising talents who can become key pillars of the team in the future.

Dori Roshan: An attractive destination for the next generation of stars

The transfer of a talented young player like Mete to the Saudi Professional League underscores the significant transformation underway in the Roshan League. Having become a destination for some of the world's biggest football stars, Saudi clubs, most notably Al-Hilal, have begun attracting young talent from major European leagues. This move enhances the league's competitiveness and transforms its image from a mere stepping stone for established stars into a comprehensive football environment capable of attracting and developing the next generation of players, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 in the sports sector. It's worth noting that the Roshan League's winter transfer window, which saw considerable activity, opened on January 5th and closes today.

Football fans will be glued to their screens today, Monday, as a number of high-profile matches take place across Saudi Arabia and Europe. The competition continues with excitement and intensity in various major leagues. This day offers fans the perfect opportunity to enjoy a rich football feast, combining local classics with tactical European encounters, at a crucial stage of the season where clubs are battling for every single point.

Saudi Roshan League: A battle for the top and for history

The Saudi Professional League, which has garnered global attention thanks to its attraction of international football stars, is set to resume with a new round of matches featuring crucial encounters. Tonight's highlight is a highly anticipated clash between Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli, a Saudi classic that has long been a stage for intense rivalry and historic competition. Al-Hilal enters the match aiming to solidify its lead and move closer to securing the title, relying on its constellation of stars and formidable attacking prowess. Meanwhile, Al-Ahli, making a strong return to the top flight, aspires to achieve a positive result that will strengthen its position in the top four and demonstrate its ability to compete with the league's elite.

In another equally important match, Al-Nassr, led by their global star Cristiano Ronaldo, will visit Al-Riyadh. Al-Nassr aims to maintain pressure on the league leaders and secure three points to keep their title hopes alive, while Al-Riyadh hopes to pull off an upset against one of the league's strongest teams. Al-Nassr's matches attract significant international attention thanks to Ronaldo's presence, adding another dimension to the domestic competition.

• 06:15 - Riyadh vs Al-Nasr
• 08:30 - Al Hilal vs Al Ahli

A European evening with different flavors

Away from the Saudi Arabian scene, the major European leagues offer crucial matches that could reshape the standings in England, Spain, and Italy. Each game carries different objectives for the participating clubs, whether it's the battle for European qualification or escaping the threat of relegation.

Spanish and Italian leagues: tactical battles

In Spain, Mallorca hosts Sevilla in a tough match for both sides. Each team is looking to improve their mid-table position and secure their place away from the relegation zone. Meanwhile, in Italy, Roma travels to face Udinese in a match where the capital club aims to boost their chances of qualifying for European competition next season, a strategic objective for the club.

• 11:00 - Mallorca vs Sevilla (Spanish League)
• 10:45 - Udinese vs Roma (Italian League)

English Premier League: A fierce battle

The evening concludes with a distinctly English clash between Sunderland and Burnley. English football is known for its physicality and pace, and this match will be no exception, as each team seeks to impose its style and secure victory in a league recognized as the most competitive in the world.

• 11:00 - Sunderland vs Burnley (English Premier League)

In a surprise move during the winter transfer window, Al-Shabab announced the signing of veteran international defender Ali Al-Bulaihi on loan from Al-Hilal until the end of the 2025/26 season. Immediately after the official announcement, Al-Bulaihi posted a heartfelt message on his X account, expressing his mixed feelings of bidding farewell to his old club and embracing his new challenge.

Al-Bulaihi wrote in his widely shared post: “I was honored to represent Al-Hilal, the great institution that taught me the meaning of championships and belonging, a magnificent fanbase and an unforgettable club… Today I embark on a new mission with Al-Shabab, the Sheikh of Clubs, and I am filled with pride and enthusiasm to give my best.” He concluded his message with a touch of loyalty: “Al-Hilal will always be in my heart, and Al-Shabab is a station I cherish… Please pray for my success.”.

A career full of achievements with the leader

Al-Bulaihi's departure, even if temporary, marks the end of a significant era in his football career, one that coincided with Al-Hilal's most glorious period. The 36-year-old defender joined the "Leaders" in the summer of 2017 from Al-Fateh and quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the team's defense. Over the years, Al-Bulaihi was known for his fighting spirit and leadership on the pitch, and he played a direct role in securing numerous domestic and continental titles, most notably the AFC Champions League title and multiple Saudi Professional League and King's Cup titles.

The importance of the deal and its expected impact

Domestically, Al-Bulaihi's arrival is a significant and valuable addition to Al-Shabab's defense. The "White Lions" are looking to bolster their squad with experienced players capable of leading the team to better results in the Saudi Professional League and other competitions. Al-Bulaihi is expected to provide the team with defensive depth and tactical solidity, in addition to sharing his extensive experience and instilling a winning mentality in the younger players. As for Al-Hilal, his departure may represent an opportunity to give more playing time to other players given the congested fixture schedule and the competition on multiple fronts.

Regionally and internationally, Al-Bulaihi enjoys widespread fame, especially after his outstanding performance with the Saudi national team in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, which featured the famous moment he shared with Argentine star Lionel Messi during the Green Falcons' historic victory. This signing will be closely watched by followers of Asian and Saudi football, which has become a destination for the world's top stars, adding further momentum and competitiveness to the league. This season, Al-Bulaihi has played seven matches for Al-Hilal, providing one assist in 377 minutes of play, indicating that he still has much to offer on the pitch.