Al Hilal sit top of the Saudi Pro League with a perfect record after five matches, and their 2-0 win away at Al Shabab on September 4 underlined why they are the team to beat this season. Goals from Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and Ruben Neves secured the derby victory at SHG Arena, extending their lead to three points over Al Nassr, who have 12 points. With 17 goals scored and only three conceded, the attacking depth across the squad is clear.

The summer transfer window has reshaped the squad significantly. Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli completed a £60 million move from Arsenal, adding width and pace to Simone Inzaghi's options. His arrival came after a reported falling-out with Mikel Arteta, and his farewell message notably omitted any mention of the Arsenal manager. The departure of Karim Benzema, whose contract was mutually terminated after just six months, closed one chapter, but the club has moved quickly to build around new faces.

Off the pitch, Al Hilal's chairman Prince Nawaf bin Saad found himself at the centre of a financial governance debate after comments about the club's financial statements drew scrutiny, with the club issuing a formal statement defending the legality and transparency of its transfer activity.

With the AFC Champions League Elite campaign beginning on September 15 against Al Gharafa, and a home league fixture against Neom SC on September 7 next, Al Hilal face a busy period that will test the depth of their rebuilt squad.