This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Al-Hilal SFC in late 2025. From its royal founding to the recent private acquisition by Prince Alwaleed bin Talal and its status as Asia's most decorated club.
Al-Hilal SFC: The Ultimate 2025 Guide to the "Asian Club of the Century"
In the high-stakes world of Saudi football, Al-Hilal Saudi Football Club (Al-Hilal SFC) remains the gold standard. Known as Al-Za’eem (The Boss) and the Blue Power, Al-Hilal enters late 2025 as a global pioneer, becoming the first major Saudi club to transition toward full private ownership while maintaining its dominance on the pitch under the guidance of elite European coaching.
1. History of Al-Hilal SFC: A Legacy Forged by Royal Decree
The history of Al-Hilal SFC is unique in world football. Founded on October 16, 1957, by Abdul Rahman bin Said, the club was originally named "Olympic Club." However, its identity changed forever just a year later.
The Royal Name Change
On December 3, 1958, King Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud issued a royal decree to change the club's name to Al-Hilal (The Crescent Moon) after attending a local tournament. This royal connection has remained a core part of the club’s identity for over 68 years, helping it grow into the "Asian Club of the Century."
A Pioneer of International Talent
Long before the 2023 transfer explosion, Al-Hilal was a pioneer. In the 1970s, the club shocked the world by signing Brazilian legends Mario Zagallo (as coach) and Roberto Rivellino. This tradition of excellence set the stage for the modern era of superstars.
2. Who Owns Al-Hilal SFC? The 2025 Acquisition
The biggest news of 2025 involves the question: Who owns Al-Hilal SFC? While the club was previously 75% owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), a historic shift has occurred.
⚽ Private Acquisition: As of December 2025, Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, Chairman of Kingdom Holding Company, has moved to acquire a 100% stake in the club for a reported SAR 7.5 billion ($2 billion valuation).
⚽ Equity Structure: This move marks the first complete private acquisition of a "Big Four" Saudi club, moving away from government-backed PIF control to a pure private equity model under one of the world's most famous investors.
3. The 2025 Leadership: Coach and Manager
Following the departure of Jorge Jesus, Al-Hilal turned to Italian excellence to lead their new era.
The Manager: Simone Inzaghi
In June 2025, Simone Inzaghi was appointed as the Al-Hilal coach. Joining from Inter Milan, Inzaghi brought his signature 3-5-2 tactical system to Riyadh. By December 2025, he has already led the team to an incredible 17-match unbeaten streak in all competitions.
⚽ Technical Strategy: Inzaghi’s managerial style focuses on disciplined defending combined with explosive wing-back play, perfectly suited for the club's high-caliber roster.
4. Names of Team Members: The 2025–2026 Squad
The **names of team members** at Al-Hilal represent a "Galactico" approach. The summer 2025 transfer window saw the arrival of several world-class stars to bolster an already elite team.
The 2025 First-Team Roster
| No. | Position | Player Name | Nationality |
|---|---|---|---|
| 29 | Forward | Salem Al-Dawsari (C) | Saudi Arabia |
| 7 | Forward | Darwin Núñez | Uruguay |
| 11 | Forward | Marcos Leonardo | Brazil |
| 10 | Forward | Neymar Jr. | Brazil |
| 19 | Defender | Théo Hernandez | France |
| 8 | Midfielder | Rúben Neves | Portugal |
| 22 | Midfielder | Sergej Milinković-Savić | Serbia |
| 3 | Defender | Kalidou Koulibaly | Senegal |
| 20 | Defender | João Cancelo | Portugal |
| 37 | Goalkeeper | Yassine Bounou | Morocco |
Key 2025 Signings
The 2025 season was defined by the arrival of Darwin Núñez from Liverpool ($61M) and Théo Hernandez from AC Milan ($29M), creating perhaps the fastest and most dangerous left flank in world football.
5. The Captain: Salem Al-Dawsari
The role of Al-Hilal captain is held by the legendary Salem Al-Dawsari. A hero of Saudi football, Salem’s leadership has been vital during the transition to Inzaghi’s management. His ability to perform in "Big Games" continues to make him the heartbeat of the team.
6. Al-Hilal Achievements: A Global Record-Breaker
Al-Hilal's achievements are unrivaled in the Middle East and Asia. The club recently entered the Guinness World Records for the longest winning streak in football history (34 matches).
Domestic Dominance
⚽ Saudi Professional League: 19 Titles (Record)
⚽ King’s Cup: 11 Titles
⚽ Crown Prince Cup: 13 Titles (Record)
⚽ Saudi Super Cup: 5 Titles (Record)
Continental & Global Success
⚽ AFC Champions League: 4 Titles (Record)
⚽ Asian Cup Winners' Cup: 2 Titles
⚽ Asian Super Cup: 2 Titles
⚽ FIFA Club World Cup: Runners-up (2022); Semi-finalists (2025)
7. FAQ: Al-Hilal SFC Common Questions
Q: Who owns Al-Hilal SFC in 2025?
⚽ A: As of late 2025, the club is in the final stages of a 100% private acquisition by Prince Alwaleed bin Talal through Kingdom Holding Company.
Q: Who is the current Al-Hilal coach?
⚽ A: The Al-Hilal manager is Simone Inzaghi, who joined the club in June 2025 from Inter Milan.
Q: How many trophies has Al-Hilal won?
⚽ A: Al-Hilal has won over 68 official trophies, including a record 19 League titles and 4 AFC Champions League titles.
Q: Who are the most famous names of team members?
⚽ A: The current squad features Neymar Jr., Darwin Núñez, Théo Hernandez, Rúben Neves, and Yassine Bounou.
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