When the Knee Bites Back: Al Hilal's Defender Drops Out as Season Looms
29 March 2026
Injury hits Al Hilal's plans
Al Hilal faced a fresh setback after hoping to welcome back a key defensive pillar. Right-back Hamad Al-Yami suffered a serious knee injury during the postponed clash with Al Taawoun in February, a blow that dampened the club's momentum.
He underwent emergency surgery in Finland in early March, with early reports suggesting a return by season’s end. Saudi media later indicated that his campaign could be over, adding a cautionary note to Hilal’s campaign.
Al-Yami, 26, had joined Hilal from Al Qadsia in 2021 and was loaned to Al Shabab in the 2023-24 season before returning to the Blue Wave. The club now braces for a run of demanding fixtures after the international break, starting with a league clash against Al Taawon and followed by a match against Al Sadd in the Elite AFC Champions League knockout stages.
Hilal sit second in the Saudi Pro League on 64 points, three behind leaders Al Nassr, as they navigate a demanding April schedule that will test their depth and resilience.
As fans digest the setback, questions swirl about squad rotation and defensive options for the rest of the season. In the broader picture, the club’s immediate focus remains on maintaining pace in the league while managing responsibilities in Asia.
If injuries were goals, Al-Yami would be top scorer this season, and the trophy shelf would need a bigger room. If patience were a tactic, Hilal might have a game plan that finally pays off. And yes, even football gods enjoy a good plot twist at crunch time.
