Al Hilal defeated Kitara 2-3 in the CAF Confederation Cup. The fixture is part of the 1st Preliminary Round stage in the 2024 season. B. Sarr officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Kitara vs Al Hilal meeting in CAF Confederation Cup with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Kitara and Al Hilal. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
CAF Confederation CupRecorded meetings: 0 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Al Hilal defeated Kitara 2-3 in the CAF Confederation Cup. The fixture is part of the 1st Preliminary Round stage in the 2024 season. B. Sarr officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Kitara vs Al Hilal meeting in CAF Confederation Cup with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Kitara and Al Hilal. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
CAF Confederation Cup
Ahead of the 2026-27 season, Al Hilal are already looking to strengthen the squad to compete for every title. However, Karim Benzema could lose a teammate, as Darwin Núñez is reportedly close to leaving on loan to Portugal. After failing to win the Saudi Pro League title last season, Al Hilal have already decided to strengthen their roster, signing Crysencio Summerville for the wing. However, they remain open to bringing in more players, looking to reinforce Karim Benzema in attack. To do so, the Saudi side is preparing key departures, opening up foreign-player slots. With this in mind, Darwin Núñez is reportedly close to leaving on loan to Portugal. According to Arriyadiyah, a well-known Saudi media outlet, Darwin Núñez is very close to leaving Al Hilal on loan, heading to the Portuguese league. Both FC Porto and Benfica are closely monitoring his arrival, with negotiations already underway. Despite having played in LaLiga and the Premier League, the Uruguayan striker produced his best version in the Primeira Liga, so a return there would be key. With Benzema’s arrival, Darwin was left out of Al Hilal’s Saudi Pro League squad, leaving him available only for the AFC Champions League Elite. With the veteran Frenchman and Marcos Leonardo, the Uruguayan striker appears to have no place in the team, making his departure almost mandatory. With this, Núñez seems set to end his spell in the Saudi Pro League without playing a single minute alongside Karim. Darwin Núñez has gone from being one of the best strikers in the Premier League to becoming a marginal player in the Saudi Pro League. In the 24 matches he has played, he has scored only nine goals and provided five assists, disappointing many. Because of this, a return to the Primeira Liga would be key to rediscovering his best form, as he is only 27 years old and is looking to relaunch his professional career. Darwin Nunez of Al Hilal controls the ball during the Saudi Pro League match. Jader Duran’s arrival to Benfica could shut door to Darwin Núñez Recognizing Darwin Núñez as a great talent, SL Benfica are looking to bring the Uruguayan striker back for the 2026-27 season. Head coach Marco Silva faced him on numerous occasions in the Premier League and could look to relaunch his career. However, the 27-year-old striker will not have an easy path to earning a place, as they have just signed Jhon Jader Durán on loan, which would leave him out of the rotation. Head coach Marco Silva not only has Durán, but also Vangelis Pavlidis, Franjo Ivanović, and Anísio Cabral. Therefore, Darwin Núñez would be the fifth option or adapt to the left wing. In his spell at Benfica, the Uruguayan striker scored 48 goals and provided 16 assists in 85 games, but he is not coming in his best version and needs continuity. With this in mind, FC Porto seem to be his best option to have continuity.
If Everton were to sell star forward Iliman Ndiaye to Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, they would likely receive a significant financial windfall. The Senegal international may have chipped in with a modest six goals — two of which were penalties — and three assists in the Premier League last season. For Everton last season, he attempted 136 dribbles and completed 73, 77 and 46 more than any other player in the squad, respectively.
After losing prominence, Bradley Barcola has decided not to renew his contract with PSG, which expires in 2028. As a result, the 23-year-old star is attracting a great deal of interest from several teams. However, there are two clubs pursuing his signing as a marquee reinforcement. Paris Saint-Germain have become the best team in the world, winning two consecutive UEFA Champions League titles. Despite this, Bradley Barcola appears determined to leave the club after losing prominence and becoming a regular substitute. As a result, Barcola has reportedly decided not to renew his contract, attracting the attention of several teams. However, two clubs appear to be leading the race for his signing. According to Fabrice Hawkins of RMC Sport, via X, Bradley Barcola has already rejected three contract renewal offers from PSG and is determined not to accept any of them. Therefore, there will be no further discussions between the two parties, meaning his contract will expire in 2028. As he is not an undisputed starter under head coach Luis Enrique, he appears open to leaving either this summer or in the summer of 2027. With two years still remaining on his contract, PSG are not open to letting him leave easily. They are reportedly demanding a €170 million transfer fee, complicating his departure. However, Liverpool and Arsenal are determined to pursue his signing, as they consider him a truly game-changing player, reports L’Équipe. Amid this race, the Reds are leading the race due to the player’s acceptance to play at Anfield. Despite Liverpool being his preferred destination, Arsenal remain very attentive to the signing of Barcola, but only values his transfer at around €90 million, reports L’Équipe. Therefore, they would need to wait for PSG to lower its demands in order to complete his arrival this summer. While the Premier League appears to be his dream destination, Bradley has another option open: Bayern Munich. Bradley Barcola of PSG attempts to shoot past David Raya of Arsenal. Bradley Barcola tipped to replace Luis Díaz at Bayern Munich Throughout the 2025-26 season, Bayern Munich established as one of the best attacking teams in the world. Led by Luis Diaz, Harry Kane, and Michael Olise, they dominated in Europe, leaving a strong impression despite failing to win the UEFA Champions League. However, the Colombian star could leave in a blockbuster transfer to Al Hilal. Therefore, Bradley Barcola would be the ideal replacement. Like Liverpool and Arsenal, Bayern Munich are reportedly monitoring the arrival of the French winger. However, Luis Diaz’s departure would be the key condition for the club to move forward with his signing, as there would currently be no room for him in the starting lineup. In that sense, the 23-year-old star would be the ideal replacement, as he is essential in both the creative and goalscoring aspects of the game.
Karim Benzema is seto for a major squad boost with Al Hilal reportedly agree for a $91 million fee for West Ham United to sign Crysencio Summerville. Preparations are officially underway for the 2026-27 season, and with the World Cup in the rearview mirror, Karim Benzema is eager to wrestle Saudi Arabian soccer dominance away from Cristiano Ronaldo. In what serves as a massive boost for the French striker, Al Hilal has reportedly agreed to a $91 million deal to acquire Dutch winger Crysencio Summerville from West Ham United. As reported by journalist and transfer insider Ben Jacobs, Al Hilal and West Ham reached an agreement on a total package worth €80 million ($91 million). The Saudi powerhouse initially approached the 24-year-old winger back in May, but after Summerville spent the early summer exploring options across Europe, he is now set to put pen to paper on a long-term contract in Riyadh. Summerville also drew significant interest from AS Roma during the primary window. According to Jacobs, the Italian club was preparing a €46 million offer for the forward, but despite his €35 million valuation on Transfermarkt, Al Hilal’s overwhelming bid proved too lucrative for both West Ham and the player to turn down. A move away from East London was all but guaranteed for Summerville after West Ham suffered a catastrophic relegation from the Premier League to the EFL Championship. While several top-flight English clubs expressed interest in keeping him in the UK, none were willing to match the aggressive financial package put forward by the Saudi side. Crysencio Summerville #24 of the Netherlands celebrating. Despite a turbulent 2025-26 campaign with the Hammers, Summerville emerged as one of the brightest lights for the Netherlands during their World Cup run. In four appearances before the Dutch fell in the Round of 32, the dynamic winger tallied two goals and two assists in his debut tournament on the international stage. Summerville gives Benzema a elite partner in attack Al Hilal has consistently featured near the top of Saudi soccer, but the 2025-26 campaign proved frustrating: even after landing Benzema during the winter transfer window, the club walked away with only the King Cup. Heading into 2026-27, Summerville’s arrival could be the exact piece needed to tip the scales back in their favor. Benzema is locked in as the starting center forward, having already featured in a recent preseason friendly against Austrian side Sturm Graz II, with Brazilian star Malcom anchoring the right wing. Because Summerville did his finest work on that same right flank in London, head coach Simone Inzaghi will need to tweak his standard 4-3-3 tactical setup or shift one of his high-priced wingers over to the left side.
Throughout history, Egypt have been one of the most competitive national teams in Africa. However, their stars have names such as Ziko or Trezeguet, which demonstrate influences from soccer powerhouses in their development. Egypt have remained one of the most competitive national teams in Africa. Led by Mohamed Salah, they have managed to be protagonists, reaching the final stages of the African Cup of Nations. Although their main star is already 34 years old, they still maintain numerous talents in their squad. However, several of them have well-known names such as Ziko or Trezeguet, clearly reflecting their influence from soccer powerhouses in their development. In the 2026 World Cup roster of Hossam Hassan, Mahmoud Hassan, Trézéguet, Nabil Emad Dunga, and Mostafa Zaki Abdelraouf (Ziko) are an essential part of Egypt’s project. Their names are reminiscent of the legends David Trézéguet, Carlos Caetano Bledorn (Dunga), and Arthur Antunes Coimbra (Zico). However, none of the Egyptian stars officially carry these surnames in their names, so these are presented as a tribute. Badr Ragab, Mahmoud Hassan’s coach, revealed to AFP that the nickname ‘Trézéguet’ was his idea. “From his first days… I noticed (Hassan’s) resemblance to Trézéguet, both in appearance and playing style… He was strong in the air and scored goals in a similar way, so I gave him the name. I never imagined it would stay with him for so long,” he revealed. In the same way, Dunga’s nickname was born. In the same way, Mostafa Zaki’s brother revealed that the nickname ‘Ziko’ emerged because of him, as he used to be named ‘Ziko’ while playing professional soccer. “When Mostafa started playing, coaches called him ‘little Zico’ because he was my younger brother,” he revealed, via AFP. Being 29 years old, he keeps his nickname, playing at Pyramids FC and Egypt, showcasing the inspiration in the Brazilian legend. Mostafa Zico #11 of Egypt is challenged by Maxim De Cuyper #5 of Belgium. Pavel Nedved and David Beckham inspire Egyptian League players Despite only Mahmoud Trézéguet, Mostafa Ziko, and Nabil Emad Dunga being in the Egyptian national team, in the Egyptian League there remain some names that recall soccer legends such as Pavel Nedvěd, and David Beckham, who have not yet reached the national team. Karim Walid, known as Karim Nedved, is one of the stars of Cleopatra FC in the Egyptian Premier League, who played for Egypt U-23. As happened with Mahmoud Hassan, the same coach who gave the nickname “Trézéguet” supposedly gave him the nickname at the Al-Ahly academy. Similarly, Ahmed Ramadan from Al-Ahly emerges, who plays under the nickname David Beckham.
After finishing a difficult season, Rafael Leão has decided to publicly announce his desire to leave AC Milan. However, the Portuguese star has reportedly chosen to reject a massive offer from Karim Benzema’s Al Hilal ahead the 2026–27 season. Despite being a key figure in the attack, Rafael Leão has decided to publicly announce his desire to leave AC Milan. Not only will the club not be playing in the UEFA Champions League, but they also have no clear idea who will be managing the team. However, the Portuguese star has reportedly rejected a massive offer to play alongside Karim Benzema at Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League. As a result, he appears to have two preferred destinations in mind. According to Nicolò Schira, a well-known Italian journalist, via X, Al Hilal decided to submit a massive offer to Rafael Leão, hoping he could become the ideal partner for Karim Benzema. Although the contractual terms would have represented a significant improvement over those at AC Milan, he has decided to reject the opportunity. Despite wanting to leave the Rossoneri, he appears to be seeking a far greater challenge in his career. Ahead of the 2026–27 season, Rafael Leão reportedly wants to play in either the Premier League or LaLiga. However, he has yet to receive any offers, meaning his future appears likely to be decided after the 2026 World Cup. With that in mind, Arsenal and Manchester United seem to be his preferred destinations, as both clubs could make an immediate investment and offer him a key role as their starting left winger. Rafael Leão is not coming off his best season with the Rossoneri. After playing 31 matches, he managed to score 10 goals and provide 3 assists. However, he had numerous games without contributing. Far from being solely his fault, former head coach Massimiliano Allegri did not use him on the left wing, but rather as a center forward, which was a drastic change. Because of this, a move to the Premier League as a left winger could be transformative for him. Rafael Leao of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match. Leão potential departure may allow AC Milan to reshuffle offense AC Milan are preparing for a squad rebuild, reportedly targeting Ralf Rangnick and Oliver Glasner as the new leaders of the project. With that in mind, they could allow several players who do not fit their playing style to leave. As one of the club’s most valuable assets, Rafael Leão’s potential sale for €50–60 million would be key to rebuilding the attack as the center-forward spot may be a huge priority. With Leão’s departure, Christian Pulisic could take on a key role on the left wing, similar to the position he plays for the USMNT. If the Rossoneri receive a substantial transfer fee, they could target a prolific striker, as neither Santiago Giménez nor Christopher Nkunku have fully lived up to expectations. Therefore, both the Portuguese star and AC Milan would benefit from a transfer in the summer of 2026, making Premier League interest crucial to getting a deal done.
Following a disappointing season, Liverpool have decided to reshape their squad under Andoni Iraola. As an attacking reinforcement, the Reds are reportedly targeting the return of Darwin Núñez on a free transfer from Al Hilal. Darwin Núñez completed a €53 million transfer to Al Hilal in 2025, arriving as a marquee attacking signing. However, Karim Benzema’s arrival pushed him out of the sporting project, leading to his exclusion from the Saudi Pro League squad list. As a result, the Uruguayan striker is targeting a return to the Premier League, with the Reds reportedly pursuing his return on a free transfer in the summer of 2026. According to Graeme Bailey, via teamTALK, the Reds are considering a possible return for Núñez as a backup striker. Having been left out of Al Hilal’s sporting project, the forward is expected to push for a return to Europe this summer as a free agent, having gone a long period without playing. After leaving a strong legacy at the club, a return to Anfield could help him rediscover his best form. Despite Liverpool’s interest, they have not submitted any offer for the Uruguayan striker, meaning his return is far from a reality. In addition, Al Hilal could push to receive some compensation from a potential transfer, as he remains under contract until 2028. Therefore, negotiations may be far from straightforward, but his performances at the 2026 World Cup could be key in reshaping his professional future. Darwin is not coming off the best season of his career, as he failed to win the starting role at Al Hilal, while Benzema ultimately pushed him out of the team. Nevertheless, he could take advantage of Marcelo Bielsa’s trust in him with Uruguay to shine at the World Cup. If he manages to do so, not only would Liverpool push to sign him, but other Premier League clubs could also enter the race, as his contribution goes far beyond just scoring goals. Darwin Nunez of Al Hilal celebrates after scoring Darwin Núñez could shake up Andoni Iraola’s rotation at Liverpool Ahead of the 2026–27 season, Liverpool would be looking to have different attacking alternatives under Andoni Iraola. With Alexander Isak recently returning from an injury and Hugo Ekitike sidelined with a long-term injury, the potential return of Darwin Núñez would be an absolute success. While he would not be an immediate starter, he could offer plenty of attacking options that fit the head coach’s needs. During his time with the Reds, Darwin managed to stand out both as a center forward and as a left winger. With his explosive pace, change of rhythm, and tactical intelligence, he earned a place in Klopp’s rotation. The same could happen under Iraola, as Cody Gakpo’s future is not entirely clear and the Uruguayan striker could fill a similar role. However, he would only arrive as a free agent.
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Ahead of the 2026-27 season, Al Hilal are already looking to strengthen the squad to compete for every title. However, Karim Benzema could lose a teammate, as Darwin Núñez is reportedly close to leaving on loan to Portugal. After failing to win the Saudi Pro League title last season, Al Hilal have already decided to strengthen their roster, signing Crysencio Summerville for the wing. However, they remain open to bringing in more players, looking to reinforce Karim Benzema in attack. To do so, the Saudi side is preparing key departures, opening up foreign-player slots. With this in mind, Darwin Núñez is reportedly close to leaving on loan to Portugal. According to Arriyadiyah, a well-known Saudi media outlet, Darwin Núñez is very close to leaving Al Hilal on loan, heading to the Portuguese league. Both FC Porto and Benfica are closely monitoring his arrival, with negotiations already underway. Despite having played in LaLiga and the Premier League, the Uruguayan striker produced his best version in the Primeira Liga, so a return there would be key. With Benzema’s arrival, Darwin was left out of Al Hilal’s Saudi Pro League squad, leaving him available only for the AFC Champions League Elite. With the veteran Frenchman and Marcos Leonardo, the Uruguayan striker appears to have no place in the team, making his departure almost mandatory. With this, Núñez seems set to end his spell in the Saudi Pro League without playing a single minute alongside Karim. Darwin Núñez has gone from being one of the best strikers in the Premier League to becoming a marginal player in the Saudi Pro League. In the 24 matches he has played, he has scored only nine goals and provided five assists, disappointing many. Because of this, a return to the Primeira Liga would be key to rediscovering his best form, as he is only 27 years old and is looking to relaunch his professional career. Darwin Nunez of Al Hilal controls the ball during the Saudi Pro League match. Jader Duran’s arrival to Benfica could shut door to Darwin Núñez Recognizing Darwin Núñez as a great talent, SL Benfica are looking to bring the Uruguayan striker back for the 2026-27 season. Head coach Marco Silva faced him on numerous occasions in the Premier League and could look to relaunch his career. However, the 27-year-old striker will not have an easy path to earning a place, as they have just signed Jhon Jader Durán on loan, which would leave him out of the rotation. Head coach Marco Silva not only has Durán, but also Vangelis Pavlidis, Franjo Ivanović, and Anísio Cabral. Therefore, Darwin Núñez would be the fifth option or adapt to the left wing. In his spell at Benfica, the Uruguayan striker scored 48 goals and provided 16 assists in 85 games, but he is not coming in his best version and needs continuity. With this in mind, FC Porto seem to be his best option to have continuity.
If Everton were to sell star forward Iliman Ndiaye to Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, they would likely receive a significant financial windfall. The Senegal international may have chipped in with a modest six goals — two of which were penalties — and three assists in the Premier League last season. For Everton last season, he attempted 136 dribbles and completed 73, 77 and 46 more than any other player in the squad, respectively.
After losing prominence, Bradley Barcola has decided not to renew his contract with PSG, which expires in 2028. As a result, the 23-year-old star is attracting a great deal of interest from several teams. However, there are two clubs pursuing his signing as a marquee reinforcement. Paris Saint-Germain have become the best team in the world, winning two consecutive UEFA Champions League titles. Despite this, Bradley Barcola appears determined to leave the club after losing prominence and becoming a regular substitute. As a result, Barcola has reportedly decided not to renew his contract, attracting the attention of several teams. However, two clubs appear to be leading the race for his signing. According to Fabrice Hawkins of RMC Sport, via X, Bradley Barcola has already rejected three contract renewal offers from PSG and is determined not to accept any of them. Therefore, there will be no further discussions between the two parties, meaning his contract will expire in 2028. As he is not an undisputed starter under head coach Luis Enrique, he appears open to leaving either this summer or in the summer of 2027. With two years still remaining on his contract, PSG are not open to letting him leave easily. They are reportedly demanding a €170 million transfer fee, complicating his departure. However, Liverpool and Arsenal are determined to pursue his signing, as they consider him a truly game-changing player, reports L’Équipe. Amid this race, the Reds are leading the race due to the player’s acceptance to play at Anfield. Despite Liverpool being his preferred destination, Arsenal remain very attentive to the signing of Barcola, but only values his transfer at around €90 million, reports L’Équipe. Therefore, they would need to wait for PSG to lower its demands in order to complete his arrival this summer. While the Premier League appears to be his dream destination, Bradley has another option open: Bayern Munich. Bradley Barcola of PSG attempts to shoot past David Raya of Arsenal. Bradley Barcola tipped to replace Luis Díaz at Bayern Munich Throughout the 2025-26 season, Bayern Munich established as one of the best attacking teams in the world. Led by Luis Diaz, Harry Kane, and Michael Olise, they dominated in Europe, leaving a strong impression despite failing to win the UEFA Champions League. However, the Colombian star could leave in a blockbuster transfer to Al Hilal. Therefore, Bradley Barcola would be the ideal replacement. Like Liverpool and Arsenal, Bayern Munich are reportedly monitoring the arrival of the French winger. However, Luis Diaz’s departure would be the key condition for the club to move forward with his signing, as there would currently be no room for him in the starting lineup. In that sense, the 23-year-old star would be the ideal replacement, as he is essential in both the creative and goalscoring aspects of the game.
Karim Benzema is seto for a major squad boost with Al Hilal reportedly agree for a $91 million fee for West Ham United to sign Crysencio Summerville. Preparations are officially underway for the 2026-27 season, and with the World Cup in the rearview mirror, Karim Benzema is eager to wrestle Saudi Arabian soccer dominance away from Cristiano Ronaldo. In what serves as a massive boost for the French striker, Al Hilal has reportedly agreed to a $91 million deal to acquire Dutch winger Crysencio Summerville from West Ham United. As reported by journalist and transfer insider Ben Jacobs, Al Hilal and West Ham reached an agreement on a total package worth €80 million ($91 million). The Saudi powerhouse initially approached the 24-year-old winger back in May, but after Summerville spent the early summer exploring options across Europe, he is now set to put pen to paper on a long-term contract in Riyadh. Summerville also drew significant interest from AS Roma during the primary window. According to Jacobs, the Italian club was preparing a €46 million offer for the forward, but despite his €35 million valuation on Transfermarkt, Al Hilal’s overwhelming bid proved too lucrative for both West Ham and the player to turn down. A move away from East London was all but guaranteed for Summerville after West Ham suffered a catastrophic relegation from the Premier League to the EFL Championship. While several top-flight English clubs expressed interest in keeping him in the UK, none were willing to match the aggressive financial package put forward by the Saudi side. Crysencio Summerville #24 of the Netherlands celebrating. Despite a turbulent 2025-26 campaign with the Hammers, Summerville emerged as one of the brightest lights for the Netherlands during their World Cup run. In four appearances before the Dutch fell in the Round of 32, the dynamic winger tallied two goals and two assists in his debut tournament on the international stage. Summerville gives Benzema a elite partner in attack Al Hilal has consistently featured near the top of Saudi soccer, but the 2025-26 campaign proved frustrating: even after landing Benzema during the winter transfer window, the club walked away with only the King Cup. Heading into 2026-27, Summerville’s arrival could be the exact piece needed to tip the scales back in their favor. Benzema is locked in as the starting center forward, having already featured in a recent preseason friendly against Austrian side Sturm Graz II, with Brazilian star Malcom anchoring the right wing. Because Summerville did his finest work on that same right flank in London, head coach Simone Inzaghi will need to tweak his standard 4-3-3 tactical setup or shift one of his high-priced wingers over to the left side.
Throughout history, Egypt have been one of the most competitive national teams in Africa. However, their stars have names such as Ziko or Trezeguet, which demonstrate influences from soccer powerhouses in their development. Egypt have remained one of the most competitive national teams in Africa. Led by Mohamed Salah, they have managed to be protagonists, reaching the final stages of the African Cup of Nations. Although their main star is already 34 years old, they still maintain numerous talents in their squad. However, several of them have well-known names such as Ziko or Trezeguet, clearly reflecting their influence from soccer powerhouses in their development. In the 2026 World Cup roster of Hossam Hassan, Mahmoud Hassan, Trézéguet, Nabil Emad Dunga, and Mostafa Zaki Abdelraouf (Ziko) are an essential part of Egypt’s project. Their names are reminiscent of the legends David Trézéguet, Carlos Caetano Bledorn (Dunga), and Arthur Antunes Coimbra (Zico). However, none of the Egyptian stars officially carry these surnames in their names, so these are presented as a tribute. Badr Ragab, Mahmoud Hassan’s coach, revealed to AFP that the nickname ‘Trézéguet’ was his idea. “From his first days… I noticed (Hassan’s) resemblance to Trézéguet, both in appearance and playing style… He was strong in the air and scored goals in a similar way, so I gave him the name. I never imagined it would stay with him for so long,” he revealed. In the same way, Dunga’s nickname was born. In the same way, Mostafa Zaki’s brother revealed that the nickname ‘Ziko’ emerged because of him, as he used to be named ‘Ziko’ while playing professional soccer. “When Mostafa started playing, coaches called him ‘little Zico’ because he was my younger brother,” he revealed, via AFP. Being 29 years old, he keeps his nickname, playing at Pyramids FC and Egypt, showcasing the inspiration in the Brazilian legend. Mostafa Zico #11 of Egypt is challenged by Maxim De Cuyper #5 of Belgium. Pavel Nedved and David Beckham inspire Egyptian League players Despite only Mahmoud Trézéguet, Mostafa Ziko, and Nabil Emad Dunga being in the Egyptian national team, in the Egyptian League there remain some names that recall soccer legends such as Pavel Nedvěd, and David Beckham, who have not yet reached the national team. Karim Walid, known as Karim Nedved, is one of the stars of Cleopatra FC in the Egyptian Premier League, who played for Egypt U-23. As happened with Mahmoud Hassan, the same coach who gave the nickname “Trézéguet” supposedly gave him the nickname at the Al-Ahly academy. Similarly, Ahmed Ramadan from Al-Ahly emerges, who plays under the nickname David Beckham.
After finishing a difficult season, Rafael Leão has decided to publicly announce his desire to leave AC Milan. However, the Portuguese star has reportedly chosen to reject a massive offer from Karim Benzema’s Al Hilal ahead the 2026–27 season. Despite being a key figure in the attack, Rafael Leão has decided to publicly announce his desire to leave AC Milan. Not only will the club not be playing in the UEFA Champions League, but they also have no clear idea who will be managing the team. However, the Portuguese star has reportedly rejected a massive offer to play alongside Karim Benzema at Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League. As a result, he appears to have two preferred destinations in mind. According to Nicolò Schira, a well-known Italian journalist, via X, Al Hilal decided to submit a massive offer to Rafael Leão, hoping he could become the ideal partner for Karim Benzema. Although the contractual terms would have represented a significant improvement over those at AC Milan, he has decided to reject the opportunity. Despite wanting to leave the Rossoneri, he appears to be seeking a far greater challenge in his career. Ahead of the 2026–27 season, Rafael Leão reportedly wants to play in either the Premier League or LaLiga. However, he has yet to receive any offers, meaning his future appears likely to be decided after the 2026 World Cup. With that in mind, Arsenal and Manchester United seem to be his preferred destinations, as both clubs could make an immediate investment and offer him a key role as their starting left winger. Rafael Leão is not coming off his best season with the Rossoneri. After playing 31 matches, he managed to score 10 goals and provide 3 assists. However, he had numerous games without contributing. Far from being solely his fault, former head coach Massimiliano Allegri did not use him on the left wing, but rather as a center forward, which was a drastic change. Because of this, a move to the Premier League as a left winger could be transformative for him. Rafael Leao of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match. Leão potential departure may allow AC Milan to reshuffle offense AC Milan are preparing for a squad rebuild, reportedly targeting Ralf Rangnick and Oliver Glasner as the new leaders of the project. With that in mind, they could allow several players who do not fit their playing style to leave. As one of the club’s most valuable assets, Rafael Leão’s potential sale for €50–60 million would be key to rebuilding the attack as the center-forward spot may be a huge priority. With Leão’s departure, Christian Pulisic could take on a key role on the left wing, similar to the position he plays for the USMNT. If the Rossoneri receive a substantial transfer fee, they could target a prolific striker, as neither Santiago Giménez nor Christopher Nkunku have fully lived up to expectations. Therefore, both the Portuguese star and AC Milan would benefit from a transfer in the summer of 2026, making Premier League interest crucial to getting a deal done.
Following a disappointing season, Liverpool have decided to reshape their squad under Andoni Iraola. As an attacking reinforcement, the Reds are reportedly targeting the return of Darwin Núñez on a free transfer from Al Hilal. Darwin Núñez completed a €53 million transfer to Al Hilal in 2025, arriving as a marquee attacking signing. However, Karim Benzema’s arrival pushed him out of the sporting project, leading to his exclusion from the Saudi Pro League squad list. As a result, the Uruguayan striker is targeting a return to the Premier League, with the Reds reportedly pursuing his return on a free transfer in the summer of 2026. According to Graeme Bailey, via teamTALK, the Reds are considering a possible return for Núñez as a backup striker. Having been left out of Al Hilal’s sporting project, the forward is expected to push for a return to Europe this summer as a free agent, having gone a long period without playing. After leaving a strong legacy at the club, a return to Anfield could help him rediscover his best form. Despite Liverpool’s interest, they have not submitted any offer for the Uruguayan striker, meaning his return is far from a reality. In addition, Al Hilal could push to receive some compensation from a potential transfer, as he remains under contract until 2028. Therefore, negotiations may be far from straightforward, but his performances at the 2026 World Cup could be key in reshaping his professional future. Darwin is not coming off the best season of his career, as he failed to win the starting role at Al Hilal, while Benzema ultimately pushed him out of the team. Nevertheless, he could take advantage of Marcelo Bielsa’s trust in him with Uruguay to shine at the World Cup. If he manages to do so, not only would Liverpool push to sign him, but other Premier League clubs could also enter the race, as his contribution goes far beyond just scoring goals. Darwin Nunez of Al Hilal celebrates after scoring Darwin Núñez could shake up Andoni Iraola’s rotation at Liverpool Ahead of the 2026–27 season, Liverpool would be looking to have different attacking alternatives under Andoni Iraola. With Alexander Isak recently returning from an injury and Hugo Ekitike sidelined with a long-term injury, the potential return of Darwin Núñez would be an absolute success. While he would not be an immediate starter, he could offer plenty of attacking options that fit the head coach’s needs. During his time with the Reds, Darwin managed to stand out both as a center forward and as a left winger. With his explosive pace, change of rhythm, and tactical intelligence, he earned a place in Klopp’s rotation. The same could happen under Iraola, as Cody Gakpo’s future is not entirely clear and the Uruguayan striker could fill a similar role. However, he would only arrive as a free agent.
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