Al Hilal sit top of the Saudi Pro League with 27 points from 10 games, two clear of Al Nassr, and their 3-2 victory at Al Qadsiah on October 23 reinforced their title credentials. It was their first win at that ground since December 2020, making it a result that carried weight beyond the three points. Gabriel Martinelli, Ruben Neves and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic scored the goals, with Martinelli continuing to justify his 70 million euro move from Arsenal.

Beneath the positive result, however, a serious concern is growing around player fatigue. Neves spoke publicly after the match about the physical toll of the schedule, revealing the squad had spent 25 hours travelling by bus due to airport closures caused by Houthi attacks in the region. That logistical burden sits on top of an already demanding calendar, and it has created genuine tension with the AFC. Al Hilal had previously requested postponements for their Asian Champions League Elite fixtures and were refused, while Al Nassr's match against Al Wasl was later rescheduled. Club officials expressed anger at what they see as an inconsistent approach from the continental governing body.

The squad now faces a trip to Qatar to face Al-Shamal in the AFC Champions League Elite on October 27, with Neves warning the travel demands show no sign of easing. How Al Hilal manage their players through this period could prove decisive to their season on multiple fronts.