Al Hilal’s Spanish CEO, Jorge Carrasco, recently spoke on El Larguero of Cadena SER about Karim Benzema’s transfer and the broader strategy for Saudi football signings. Carrasco stated that he neither understands nor cares much about Cristiano Ronaldo’s dissatisfaction with Al Hilal’s winter transfer window acquisitions. He referenced Al Nassr’s previous signings of stars like João Félix and Kingsley Coman.
One of this winter’s headline moves saw former Real Madrid star Karim Benzema join Al Hilal from Al Ittihad, shocking the Saudi football scene. Managed by Simone Inzaghi, Al Hilal already features La Liga alumni such as Yassine Bounou and Theo Hernández, and Benzema is set to start a new chapter in his career.
With only six months left on his contract at Al Ittihad and renewal talks stalled, Al Hilal acted quickly to secure Benzema. Carrasco told Cadena SER, “We showed great determination to sign Benzema, while also bringing in a number of talented young Arab players. Our objective is crystal clear: to compete for every trophy.”
Benzema Move Causes Ronaldo Frustration
The signing created tension in the Saudi Pro League, particularly with Cristiano Ronaldo. The issue stems from the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) backing both Al Hilal and Ronaldo’s current club, Al Nassr. Some Al Nassr insiders, including Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus, viewed the Benzema deal as a potential conflict of interest.
At one point, Ronaldo reportedly refused to play, demanding that the PIF clarify the situation. Benzema ultimately signed with Al Hilal until 2027. Carrasco remained unfazed, commenting, “You’d have to ask him directly what the issue is.”
Carrasco explained Al Hilal’s transfer funding strategy, saying, “Al Hilal is one of Saudi Arabia’s most powerful clubs. Our transfer budget comes primarily from three sources: the club’s own commercial and merchandise revenue, government-backed initiatives to sign world-class stars, and support from the royal family.” He also pointed out that Al Nassr had made high-profile acquisitions like João Félix and Kingsley Coman in the previous summer window.
Saudi Arabia Eyes Vinícius Júnior
Saudi football’s influence continues to grow globally. Al Hilal’s FIFA Club World Cup victory over Manchester City highlighted the advantage of signing European stars. Targets for future transfers include Mohamed Salah and Vinícius Júnior.
Carrasco clarified, “As far as our club is concerned, there have been no substantive negotiations. But every time the CEO of the Saudi Pro League is asked about this, he says—if Vinícius becomes available for transfer, we will definitely make an attempt to sign him.”
Carrasco has gained popularity in Saudi Arabia, often stopping for autographs from fans, a routine he says he has “gotten used to.” This enthusiasm reflects Saudi football’s growing fan culture, with stadiums near full capacity as the country builds toward the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
When asked about Pep Guardiola, who previously worked with Carrasco at Manchester City, Carrasco responded cautiously, “If he ever becomes available to manage, there will certainly be interest.”
