Prince Nawaf bin Saad, president of Al-Hilal, has rejected allegations of financial manipulation surrounding the Saudi club’s major signings during the current summer transfer window.
Speaking in comments reported by Saudi journalist Maan Al-Quwai’i, Prince Nawaf said Al-Hilal was the only club to publish its financial records and insisted that the figures relating to its funding were available for examination.
“Al-Hilal is the only club that announces its financial statements, and I have previously spoken about the scale of the financial support from Prince Alwaleed bin Talal,” he said.
He also defended the role of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which represents the state, and the Ministry of Sport, saying accusations against them should not be made.
“All the figures are available and recorded, and the Public Investment Fund represents the state. Therefore, everyone must respect those bodies and give them considerable regard, because what is happening now is an accusation that state institutions are manipulating matters,” Prince Nawaf added.
He continued: “The two bodies that have faced the most accusations are the Public Investment Fund and the Ministry of Sport. This should not happen. We must respect state institutions, and whoever does that does not understand the seriousness of his actions. We are in a country governed by Sharia before the law.”
The comments came as Al-Hilal continue to attract attention for their activity in the transfer market and the strength of the squad they are assembling.
Benzema departure explained
Prince Nawaf also provided details about Karim Benzema’s departure from Al-Hilal after the club reached a financial settlement with the France striker.
Benzema joined Al-Hilal from Al-Ittihad during the previous winter transfer window but left after only half a season with the club.
The Al-Hilal president said the decision was made for sporting reasons and that Benzema accepted it professionally.
“I thank Karim (Benzema) for the way the matter was handled with great sophistication and professionalism. His departure was a sporting decision, and he accepted the decision. He is a great player. He was not excluded, but his contract was terminated by mutual consent,” he said.
Benzema’s opportunities were reduced by the arrival of Ollie Watkins, according to Prince Nawaf, although he said the striker had still been expected to have chances to play.
“With Ollie Watkins here, Karim’s opportunities to play became fewer, although they did exist. But we had to be honest with him about the club’s general situation. The settlement was completed well and reflected the co-operation that took place between the club and the player,” he said.
Prince Nawaf ended his explanation by paying tribute to Benzema’s career and contribution to football.
“Karim is a great player and has a very significant history. He is an important player in the history of world football, and we wish him success,” he said.
Al-Hilal later shared footage of Prince Nawaf’s remarks on social media, including his explanation that Benzema’s departure followed an administrative decision, which the striker accepted as a professional.
