Transfer Turnaround: Al Hilal Drops Sultan Mandesh Chase as Al Taawoun Stands Firm
19 November 2025
Background and Transfer Status
Al Hilal has ended its bid to sign Sultan Mandesh from Al Taawoun ahead of the winter transfer window, according to press reports. Mandesh has caught attention for his performances with Al Taawoun since the season began, and he has featured for the Saudi national team.
Coach's View and Club Strategy
The decision comes at the request of Brazilian coach Briklis Chamuskas, who has stated previously that his aim is to keep Mandesh at least until the end of the season. Al Taawoun formally informed Hilal that they do not wish to part with Mandesh in January, emphasizing the club’s desire to preserve squad stability during a successful period.
Mandesh's Form and International Prospects
The 31-year-old winger has been one of the standout performers in Saudi football lately, contributing to Al Taawoun’s solid start to the Roshen Pro League season. This term he has appeared in 10 matches across all competitions, scoring four goals and providing two assists; overall he has 11 goals in 70 appearances for the club, with six assists. He has also been recalled to the Saudi national team, joining a camp in Jeddah ahead of friendlies against Ivory Coast and Algeria.
Al Taawoun sit second in the league with 21 points from seven consecutive wins and a single defeat, while leaders Al Nassr enjoy a three-point cushion. With the decision to pause the Mandesh deal, Hilal is now weighing alternative options to sign a winger during the winter window.
Punchlines: 1) If transfer rumors were a league, this winter would be the knockout stage—rumors progressing, contracts stuck in extra time. 2) In football, patience is a virtue, just not when the window is closed and the ball is still in the air—let’s see who finally kicks it in January.
