Malcom has received strong backing from Al Hilal legend Sami Al-Jaber as speculation continues over the Brazilian winger’s future at the Saudi Arabian club.
The 29-year-old has been linked with a move away from Al Hilal to Al Diriyah, but Malcom refused to acknowledge the reports and confronted the media after Friday’s meeting with Al-Faisaly in the opening round of the Roshn Saudi League.
The Brazilian reacted angrily to questions about the rumours, with the uncertainty surrounding his position at Al Hilal becoming a major talking point during the current period.
Al-Jaber, one of the most prominent figures in Al Hilal’s history, defended Malcom during an appearance on the television programme Nadeena. He said the winger’s response was understandable given the circumstances surrounding his future.
“Malcom’s position is natural, as he is going through a difficult period because his future is unknown,” Al-Jaber said.
The former Al Hilal captain also warned that allowing Malcom to leave could represent a significant loss for the club, known as Al-Zaeem.
“Malcom’s departure from Al Hilal would cause a major loss for Al-Zaeem in my view,” he added. “He is a good player and possesses solutions even in his worst situations.”
Al-Jaber argued that the club should not sanction Malcom’s departure unless it can secure a replacement who is clearly better than the Brazilian.
“If Malcom is moved on, Al Hilal’s management must bring in a signing better than him, not one at his level,” he said. “If the incoming player is at the same level, Malcom should remain because he knows us and we know him.”
The comments provide public support for Malcom at a time when reports have linked him with Al Diriyah. They also place the responsibility on Al Hilal’s management to improve the squad if it decides the Brazilian winger’s time at the club has come to an end.
Malcom’s refusal to accept the transfer speculation, followed by his exchange with reporters after the Al-Faisaly match, has added to the attention surrounding his situation. Al-Jaber’s intervention now offers a contrasting message, with the Al Hilal great stressing the value of retaining a player who can still provide solutions even when he is not performing at his best.
The discussion comes at the beginning of the new Roshn Saudi League campaign, following Al Hilal’s first-round fixture against Al-Faisaly. Tickets for Roshn Saudi League matches are also available to purchase.
