Koulibaly’s Shield: Al-Hilal Inches Toward a New Season Contract
12 February 2026
Renewal on the Horizon
The Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly of Al-Hilal is on the verge of signing a one-year extension, ensuring his ongoing journey with the club. His contract with the Riyadh-based side is set to be extended beyond this season, adding another chapter to his Saudi adventure. Koulibaly joined Al-Hilal in 2023, arriving from Chelsea.
According to the Saudi daily Al-Youm, club officials are close to sealing the renewal on a recommendation from Italian head coach Simone Inzaghi.
Koulibaly’s Impact and the Road Ahead
The two parties are said to have agreed to extend for one more season, keeping the 34-year-old Senegalese defender at Al-Hilal through the end of 2026-27. Koulibaly has featured in 111 matches for the club, scoring six goals and providing five assists, and has helped the team win three trophies: the Saudi Pro League, the King Cup, and the Saudi Super Cup.
In short, the center-back’s presence has been a steadying force for the Riyadh giants, and this renewal would lay a familiar backbone for the squad’s continued ambitions. And yes, the defense just got an upgrade you can hear from miles away — a bit dramatic, but still true.
Punchline time: That renewal is so tight, even the calendar had to RSVP. Punchline two: Koulibaly’s deal is longer than my grocery list — and that’s saying something about my shopping habits.
