Al Hilal are set to welcome back Kalidou Koulibaly in the coming days after the defender recovered from an injury sustained while representing Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The 33-year-old centre-back has rejoined his club following Senegal’s tournament victory, but has yet to return to competitive action for the Saudi Pro League side.
Koulibaly was absent from Al Hilal’s draw with Al Riyadh at the weekend, prompting concern among supporters eager to see the African champion back in defence.
According to reports in the Saudi press, Al Hilal’s medical staff have informed head coach Simone Inzaghi that Koulibaly will not be available for Thursday’s league fixture against Al Qadsia, which forms part of the 19th round of the Saudi Pro League.
The club remains cautious over his recovery as he continues treatment on an adductor problem.
Despite the short-term absence, Koulibaly is expected to return to full training shortly and could be available for selection in the 20th round of league matches.
That would see him potentially feature in the meeting with Al Ahli, where he could line up against fellow Senegal international Édouard Mendy.
The injury was picked up during Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations semi-final against Egypt, forcing Koulibaly to miss the latter stages of the competition on the pitch.
The Lions of Teranga captain watched from the stands as his team completed their campaign with a historic triumph, edging Morocco 1-0 in the final to claim Senegal’s second AFCON title.
Koulibaly’s absence during the final did little to diminish his influence on the tournament, with his leadership remaining evident throughout Senegal’s successful run.
His return to club duty, however, has been closely monitored by Al Hilal, who have been reluctant to rush the defender back into action.
For Al Hilal, the prospect of Koulibaly’s imminent return provides a timely boost. The experienced centre-back remains a key figure in the squad, and his availability is expected to strengthen the team as they progress through a demanding domestic schedule.
As recovery continues, attention now turns to whether Koulibaly will be cleared in time to feature in the next round of league fixtures, marking his full return after an eventful period on international duty
