Sami Jaber Explodes on Al Hilal Forwards After Riyadh Derby: Is It Time for Fresh Firepower?
26 January 2026
Key Points
Former Zaim star Sami Al-Jaber launches a blunt critique at the duo of Al Hilal after a draw with city rival Al Riyadh.
The club settled for a positive draw with Al Riyadh, one goal apiece, in the 18th round of the Roshen Professional League.
In remarks on the Nadeen show, Al-Jaber said the two forwards, Nunez and Leonardo, do not match the ambitions of the Blue Eagles after their recent displays.
He argued a forward's role is not only to score, but to work with teammates to threaten the opponent's goal, create chances, and make a difference, even if the ball stays out.
He added that Nunez's big price tag, having played in the world's top leagues, has not yet shown itself with the club, and if he is not impactful in these matches, when will his danger be felt?
Al-Jaber wondered: if Nunez and Leonardo don't score in a game like this, who will? And does the club need to sign a new striker?
Note: If your goal is to play chess with a football, these two keep moving like knights on a blank board — always a move behind the moment. Punchline 1: If goals were on sale, those two would still be asking for a two-for-one discount. Punchline 2: They say a striker's job is to finish, but apparently these two forgot to bring their finishing acts to the stage.
Implications
The remarks underscore a broader discussion in Al Hilal about attack efficiency and the need for a sharper focal point in the final third. If the current attacking duo can’t translate potential into impact, the club may explore reinforcements to strengthen their title challenge.
