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Benzema's Saudi Switch Triggers a Tactical Shuffle at Al Hilal

11 February 2026

Benzema's Saudi Switch Triggers a Tactical Shuffle at Al Hilal
Benzema's arrival prompts a precise roster reshuffle in the Saudi Pro League.

Overview

Al Hilal has chosen the player to sacrifice from the domestic squad to register Karim Benzema.

Benzema joined Al Hilal in the winter window after parting with Al Ittihad, becoming the third overage foreign striker behind Nunez and Leonardo.

Al Yaum reports Hilal removed Nunez from the domestic list to register Benzema.

The Uruguayan will play in the second half of the season only in the AFC Champions League Elite and the King Cup.

Marcus Leonardo will be Hilal’s second striker in the Roshn Saudi League, after Benzema, who has scored 3 goals and assisted once in his first appearance against Al Akhdoud.

Conversely, Nunez has struggled for value with the 'Leader' in the first half of the season, scoring 7 goals in 23 matches. Punchline 1: this sniper move hits its target. Punchline 2: the defense is so sharp the gun needs sunglasses.

Author

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Nunez being removed from the domestic list?

To free space to register Karim Benzema for the rest of the season.

What is Benzema's role this season at Al Hilal?

He is part of the three overage foreign forwards, with limited domestic play and key involvement in ACL Elite and the King Cup.

Who becomes the primary striker for the league games?

Benzema leads, with Marcus Leonardo serving as the second striker in the Roshn Saudi League.