Al-Hilal dominates the transfer market and ranks second globally after Manchester City
In a new sporting and economic achievement reflecting the growing strength of the Saudi Professional League, Al-Hilal Club ranked second globally in the list of clubs with the highest spending during the 2025-2026 winter transfer window. This ranking places "The Leader" among the giants of global football, surpassing prestigious European clubs and trailing only Manchester City by a very narrow margin, thus confirming the seriousness of the Saudi sports project.
Record numbers and surpassing Europe's top teams
According to the latest updates from Transfermarkt, a global website specializing in football economics and player market values, Al-Hilal's total winter transfer spending reached approximately €91.7 million. The Saudi club was only €3.28 million behind the top spot in the global rankings, which was held by Manchester City with a spending of €95 million. This substantial figure allowed Al-Hilal to surpass clubs with a long history in the transfer market and massive budgets, such as Tottenham Hotspur and Atlético Madrid, highlighting the immense purchasing power now possessed by the Riyadh-based club.
Quality deals: Benzema leads the star-studded squad
Al-Hilal's transfer window was distinguished by an exceptional quality of signings that combined world-class experience with promising young talents. The most prominent and high-profile deal was the acquisition of veteran French star Karim Benzema in a transfer estimated at around €25 million, providing a formidable attacking boost to the forward line. The club also invested in the future by signing the talented Mohamed Kader Meite from Rennes in a deal worth between €30 and €40 million, and Simon Bouabre from NEOM for €23 million. Furthermore, they activated the purchase option in Leonardo's contract, ensuring continued technical stability for the team.
Local support and a comprehensive artistic vision
Al-Hilal's management didn't neglect to bolster the squad with local talent to ensure depth, bringing in promising players like Sultan Mandash, Murad Hawsawi, and goalkeeper Rayan Al-Dossari. These well-considered moves underscore the management's comprehensive technical vision, as this blend of international stars and local talent aims to create a tactical balance that will benefit the team in the long run.
Inzaghi's ambitions and continental dominance
These seven signings put the ball in the court of Italian coach Simone Inzaghi, who now possesses a star-studded squad ready to compete on all fronts. Al-Hilal's ambitions extend beyond maintaining their domestic league and King's Cup titles; their ultimate goal is to win the AFC Champions League and solidify their dominance in Asia. This remarkable economic transformation and the ability to attract elite players reflect Al-Hilal's desire to be a force to be reckoned with, not only in Asia but globally, backed by a broad fan base and substantial logistical and financial support.
