Morocco and Senegal Set the Pace for Al Hilal’s Winter Signings

Winter mercato under focus as AFCON looms

Al Hilal, guided by Italian coach Simone Inzaghi, is eyeing the January window for foreign reinforcements to cushion the likely absence of two star players during the Africa Cup of Nations. The concern centers on how the two key pieces will impact the squad when their national teams head to the tournament in Morocco next month.

Reports from the Saudi press indicate that the club is aiming to strengthen in the goalkeeper and defensive departments, specifically to cover the losses of Moroccan shot-stopper Yassine Bono and Senegalese center-back Kalidou Koulibaly. Both players are expected to feature for their countries, which would leave a noticeable gap in the heart of the team’s spine.

According to the same coverage, Bono and Koulibaly could be shifted to the Asian roster list, which does not impose the same foreign-player constraints as the domestic league that currently limits foreign arrivals to eight. This move would give Inzaghi more latitude in planning and selection during the congested period ahead.

Additionally, there is talk of recruiting a homegrown option to fill the slot left by Kaio Cesar, the Brazilian who was linked with a move but whose departure did not materialize. The plan would balance foreign additions with a locally developed alternative to sustain squad depth.

AFCON impact and the Asian challenge

The potential absence of Bono and Koulibaly would complicate Inzaghi’s plans, given their pivotal roles for their national teams and for a squad that prides itself on solidity at both ends of the pitch. The Moroccan and Senegalese duos are seen as cornerstone figures in the defense and in goal, and their loss would prompt a careful reshuffle to remain competitive across all fronts, including continental competition featuring a 24-team lineup in AFCON’s format.

Inzaghi has long leaned on Bono as a standout performer, notably during the Club World Cup runs and in earning individual accolades such as Africa’s Golden Glove. Koulibaly, too, is viewed as a fundamental pillar in the rearguard, trusted by the coach for his leadership and reliability.

In parallel, the club is exploring a strategic path in the Asian context, where roster rules differ from domestic competition. The aim is to preserve the side’s competitive balance and maintain momentum as the season presses on toward multiple trophies.

Strategically, the management has signaled a careful approach to transfers, with decisions framed as part of a broader club plan rather than as short-term fixes. The emphasis remains on strengthening where needed while preserving the core that has helped Al Hilal stay at the top of their group in the Elite competition.

Crucial fixtures and wider squad plan

Meanwhile, Al Hilal is preparing for a key AFC Elite fixture against Al Shorta, a match that could determine leadership in their West Asia group. The team currently sits in a strong position, leading the group with a perfect points tally, while Al Shorta trails with limited points, underscoring the importance of maintaining control at home.

Simone Inzaghi also touched on contract discussions, praising midfielder Robin Neves for his quality and leadership and indicating that contract extensions are being pursued in line with the club’s broader sporting plan. He stressed that all transfer activity remains under the club’s governance and the guidance of the sporting director, with the aim of strengthening the squad in a sustainable way.

The coach addressed reactions from players during recent matches, noting that a substitution reaction is natural and part of football’s emotional fabric. He reminded that decisions are made in the club’s best interests and that the team’s ongoing success is the priority.

Kaio Cesar was highlighted again as a potential option for the winter window, with the club monitoring various scenarios to ensure that the squad can sustain its lead across all competitions, including the league, cup, and elite level. The overall objective remains clear: keep Al Hilal’s momentum intact while preparing for the AFCON absences and a demanding schedule ahead.

Inzaghi reiterated that transfer activity is guided by the club’s leadership and strategic plan, and that every move is intended to serve the team’s long-term success and presence in continental tournaments. The discussions around homegrown and foreign targets continue, with the aim of a balanced, competitive squad for the rest of the season.

Humor break: if transfers were an Olympic sport, Inzaghi would be wearing a gold medal for waiting until the last minute to sign the perfect goalkeeper. Punchline two: in football as in a good joke, timing is everything, and right now Al Hilal seems to be timing the market like a veteran sniper—calm, patient, and aimed at the top corner.