Al Hilal began the 2026-27 Saudi Pro League campaign with a winning start, beating Al-Faisaly 4-2 on August 14, yet the result has done little to settle the turbulence surrounding the club. Three of the four goals came from the penalty spot, and a second-half fightback from the visitors exposed defensive frailties that analysts say could threaten the whole season. Simone Inzaghi's side sit second in the early standings, level on points with Al Nassr after one game, but the mood around the club is far from settled.

The most pressing issue is a squad in flux. Brazilian winger Malcolm scored in the opener but reacted angrily when asked by a reporter whether it was his last appearance in a Hilal shirt, with reports linking him to newly promoted Al-Dreihen still unresolved. Karim Benzema also contributed a goal, yet criticism of the French forward's form persists, and reports suggest Inzaghi is not convinced the 38-year-old fits his plans going forward. The club is said to be working on alternatives, with a deal for Chelsea winger Pedro Neto reportedly close after previous targets Iliman Ndiaye and Ousmane Dembele both declined moves. Darwin Nunez, meanwhile, has been loaned to Trabzonspor after falling out of Inzaghi's plans entirely.

Off the pitch, questions about financial commitments following Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal's acquisition of a 70 percent stake have added another layer of uncertainty. The King Cup trip to Al-Raed on August 17 arrives at a club still searching for stability both on and off the field.