A major disaster: Koulibaly puts Al-Hilal in a predicament before the season

Ahead of the new season, Al-Hilal are facing a serious technical crisis regarding their star defender Kalidou Koulibaly. The Senegal international has struggled throughout pre-season, appearing far from the commanding figure fans expected since his arrival.

The Senegalese centre-back dealt with a thigh injury during the final weeks of last season before representing his country at the 2026 World Cup. His return to club duties has been marked by significant concerns over his physical and technical levels, which have failed to meet the standards required for the upcoming campaign.

For head coach Simone Inzaghi, the situation is increasingly difficult. The Italian manager had relied on Koulibaly’s experience to anchor the backline, but the defender's current slump forces him to consider tactical adjustments or alternative personnel. The timing is particularly damaging, as the transfer window is nearing its end, making it nearly impossible to recruit a replacement of similar caliber.

With official fixtures fast approaching, the internal options at Al-Hilal do not appear capable of handling the pressure of both domestic and continental competition. The club may ultimately have to gamble on Koulibaly rediscovering his form quickly, as replacing him at this stage of the window represents an extremely difficult challenge.