Derby Drama Ends? Sami Al-Jaber Breaks Silence After Al Hilal’s Triumph
13 January 2026
Background
Sami Al-Jaber, a Saudi football icon, breaks his silence for the first time about a long-running dispute with Al Hilal's president, Nawaf bin Saad.
Following a win for the Blues, 3-1 over archrival Al Nassr in Round 15 of the Roshen Pro League, Al-Jaber sends a warm message to the chairman as the Kingdom Arena roars.
The Message and Loyalty
The years-long feud even reached court, but this victory prompted a warmer, more measured tone from the former star.
Speaking on television after the match, he stressed that personal disputes do not affect his loyalty to Al Hilal, saying: "The professional relationship and our shared allegiance to Al Hilal are bigger than any personal difference."
He added: "The personal issue with Nawaf has no bearing on my love and unwavering support for the team; that is the bedrock that cannot be toppled."
He closed with a line carrying deep meaning: "Who leaves Al Hilal does not leave behind a bad legacy ever."
Punchline 1: If legends argued about ego, at least the drama has good football to cushion the blow. Punchline 2: In football, the whistle beats the controversy every time—pass the ball, not the blame.