The future of Al-Hilal's presidency: Will Fahad bin Nafel continue to lead the club?
In a development eagerly awaited by the Saudi sports community, Fahad bin Nafel, chairman of Al-Hilal Club, faces a crucial moment in determining his future with the club. Informed sources revealed that the executive management, with the support of the club's owners, has submitted a formal request to bin Nafel to remain in his position for another season, to continue the legacy of achievements attained during his tenure. The final decision remains pending, awaiting the approval of the chairman who has led the club to a golden era.
Context of the decision: A historic era of achievements
Fahad bin Nafel assumed the presidency of Al Hilal in June 2019, and since then, the club has witnessed an exceptional period, considered one of the most successful in its illustrious history. Under his leadership, the team achieved a series of major championships across all competitions. Domestically, Al Hilal won the Saudi Professional League title multiple times, in addition to winning the King's Cup and the Saudi Super Cup. On the continental stage, the most prominent achievement was winning the AFC Champions League title twice, in 2019 and 2021, firmly establishing Al Hilal at the pinnacle of Asian football. This success culminated in an unprecedented and historic 2023-2024 Saudi Professional League season, which the team finished undefeated, breaking records in the process.
The importance of stability in light of the sports transformation
This decision comes at a pivotal time for Saudi football, which is undergoing a radical transformation thanks to the Public Investment Fund's (PIF) sports club investment and privatization project. As one of the major clubs whose ownership has been transferred to the PIF, the stability of Al-Hilal's management is seen as crucial to maintaining its high level of competitiveness and achieving the project's ambitious goals. The continued presence of Ibn Nafel means preserving a clear administrative and technical vision that has contributed to attracting world-class stars like Neymar, Mitrovic, and Neves, and building a well-rounded team capable of competing globally.
Expected effects of the decision
Fahad bin Nafel's decision will have a direct impact on the club's future, both in the short and long term. If he stays, it will ensure the continuation of work on plans for next season, including new signings and the future of the coaching staff led by Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus. However, if he decides to step down, the club will enter a new phase requiring the search for a figure capable of filling the significant void he will leave and maintaining the drive to compete in major upcoming tournaments such as the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and the AFC Champions League. In a related development, it is expected that the executive director of football, Fahad Al-Mufarrij, may also leave his position to join the Saudi national team's administration, adding another dimension to the potential changes within Al-Hilal.
