Al Hilal began their Saudi Pro League campaign with a 4-2 victory over Al-Faisaly on August 14, but the result has done little to quiet the noise surrounding the club. Three of the four goals came from the penalty spot, and Al-Faisaly pulled back to 2-2 in the second half before Ruben Neves sealed the win late on. It was a winning start, yet the performance raised as many questions as it answered.

The biggest story runs deeper than the result. Reports of a dressing room clash between coach Simone Inzaghi and Karim Benzema after the match have added tension to an already unsettled atmosphere. Inzaghi later said the exchange was light-hearted, but Saudi reports described a sharp exchange. Benzema contributed a goal and an assist, yet criticism of his overall influence has not faded, and sources suggest Inzaghi is not convinced the Frenchman should stay. Al Hilal are reported to be exploring a replacement, with Pedro Neto of Chelsea understood to be close to an agreement with the club.

Malcolm's situation adds another layer of uncertainty. The Brazilian winger scored against Al-Faisaly but reacted angrily when asked by a reporter whether it was his final appearance for the club, amid reports linking him to newly promoted Al-Qadsiah. His future remains unresolved. Darwin Nunez, meanwhile, has left on loan to Trabzonspor after falling out of Inzaghi's plans.

Off the pitch, questions about financial commitments following Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal's 70 percent takeover continue to circulate. Al Hilal travel to Al-Raed in the King Cup on August 17.