Koulibaly reveals why he jokingly threatened Salem Al-Dawsari with ‘death’

Al Hilal defender Kalidou Koulibaly has described his close relationship with team-mate Salem Al-Dawsari, including the humorous warning he issued during a match when the Saudi Arabia international failed to defend.

Speaking on The mo Show podcast, Koulibaly praised Al-Dawsari as one of the finest players in Saudi Arabian football, while suggesting that the winger is naturally reserved.

“Salem is perhaps a little introverted and does not want to show people his feelings, but I believe he is one of the best players in the history of Saudi Arabia,” Koulibaly said.

The Senegalese defender also explained that Al-Dawsari, as he gets older, must pay greater attention to looking after his body. However, Koulibaly said his team-mate still has significant ambitions and remains determined to achieve more in the coming years.

Koulibaly recalled asking Al-Dawsari why he did not speak very much. The Al Hilal player replied that he wanted to make history, become the leading scorer for the Saudi Arabia national team and establish himself as one of the best players in Asia.

Koulibaly said he was prepared to support those targets, even if it meant making decisions on the pitch that would not normally be expected of him.

“I will do everything to help him become the best player in Asia, even if I sometimes have to pass the ball to him when I am not supposed to,” he said.

The former Chelsea defender then recounted a playful exchange between the pair during an Al Hilal match. He said Al-Dawsari did not track back, but challenged him to make up for it by scoring.

“Sometimes he does not defend. Well, no problem, do not defend, but if you do not score, I will kill you afterwards. Well, he scored,” Koulibaly said.

According to Koulibaly, Al-Dawsari found the net only a few minutes after the threat was made.

The defender also revealed the reaction that followed. Al-Dawsari looked at him as if to say, “Speak again,” Koulibaly said, describing the moment as an example of the humour and understanding that exists between the two players at Al Hilal.

Koulibaly’s account presented their relationship as one built on mutual respect, with the defender keen to help Al-Dawsari pursue his personal goals while also using humour to challenge him during matches.