Inzaghi Draws the Line on Ali Al-Bulaihi’s Future at Al Hilal
5 January 2026
Context and Decision
Italian coach Simone Inzaghi, the manager of Al Hilal, has settled Ali Al-Bulaihi's future, as the defender enters the contract's free-agent phase. The decision comes as the player's current deal nears its expiration.
Al-Bulaihi's deal runs out in June, and he arrived at the club in 2017 from Al-Fateh, a transfer that still echoes.
Saudi outlet Al-Riyadhia reports that Inzaghi has dropped him from his plans, effectively signaling departure at the season's end.
The report adds that Al-Bulaihi does not want to stay to the end of his contract and is eyeing a move in January, with several offers in the Saudi Pro League.
He has yet to choose a club but is expected to negotiate with multiple teams during this open period.
A former pillar for Al Hilal, Al-Bulaihi faded from Inzaghi's plans last season and his position worsened after the Portuguese coach arrived; punchlines: "If defense could negotiate, he'd ask for more vacation time," and "January is a transfer market in disguise."
Fans hope he lands somewhere he shines brightly. Punchline 2: Inzaghi's plans twist more than a penalty shootout in the rain. Punchline 3: If deals could giggle, this transfer window would be a stand-up routine.
