Malcolm's Return in the Riyadh Clasico: A Derby Dilemma
18 February 2026
Malcolm's Fitness Update
The Brazilian winger is one of the season's standout stars for the club nicknamed The Leader.
Newspaper reports outline Malcolm's status ahead of the eagerly awaited derby against Al Ittihad, following the knee injury he sustained recently.
Malcolm picked up a knee knock in the 2-0 win over Al Ettifaq last Friday, ruling him out of the match in the final round of the Roshen League.
Al-Riyadiya, the Saudi sports daily, says he is likely to feature when Al Hilal host their rivals on Saturday at the Kingdom Arena, in the 23rd round of the Roshen.
The paper notes the winger has already recovered from the knee issue three days before the Clasico, boosting his chances to play.
A return would be a big boost for coach Simone Inzaghi, who has relied on him heavily since the start of the season.
Malcolm has appeared in 25 games for Al Hilal this season, scoring 7 goals and providing 10 assists.
If Malcolm scores, even the corner flags will demand autographs today.
And if he doesn't, the knee will get all the blame.
