Al Hilal began the new Saudi Pro League season with a winning start, beating Al-Faisaly 4-2 on August 14 to claim three points under new owner Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal. Goals from Karim Benzema, Malcolm, and Ruben Neves — the latter scoring twice — gave Simone Inzaghi's side a comfortable margin, though three of the four goals came from penalties and Al-Faisaly pulled back to 4-2 in the second half, raising questions about defensive solidity.

The result was overshadowed by a busy and unsettled transfer picture. Malcolm reacted angrily when asked by a reporter whether the Al-Faisaly match was his last in a Hilal shirt, with reports linking the Brazilian winger to newly promoted Al-Diriyah. Inzaghi addressed the situation after the game without offering clarity on the player's future. Meanwhile, the club has reportedly reached an agreement to sign Chelsea winger Pedro Neto after failing to land primary target Iliman Ndiaye, who chose to stay in the Premier League. Darwin Nunez is set to leave on loan to Trabzonspor, having fallen out of Inzaghi's plans. Joao Cancelo has been given the number 20 shirt despite ongoing talks with Barcelona over a permanent transfer.

Off the pitch, questions persist over the financial implications of Prince Al-Waleed's 70 percent takeover, with debate circulating in Saudi football circles about undisclosed financial commitments. Al Hilal next face Al-Raed in the King Cup on August 17 before returning to league action against Al-Fayha.