Gabriel Martinelli makes Al Hilal debut after 24-hour wait for Saudi Pro League bow

Brazil international Gabriel Martinelli said he was delighted to begin his Al Hilal career with a 2-0 victory over Al Shabab, but admitted he will need time to settle into his new surroundings.

Martinelli made his first appearance for Al Hilal just 24 hours after the club announced his arrival from Arsenal. He came on as a substitute for Sultan Mandash in the 67th minute of Friday’s Saudi Pro League match at SHG Arena.

The 2-0 result moved Al Hilal to victory in their fifth-round fixture, while Martinelli’s introduction marked the beginning of a new chapter following his move from the Premier League club. He was unable to score or provide an assist during his debut.

Speaking to Saudi broadcaster Al Ekhbariya after the final whistle, Martinelli said: “I am very happy with the win and, of course, I need some time to adapt, in a new country, new surroundings, and with a new team and new team-mates.”

The 24-year-old added: “I am happy to be here. This is a new chapter in my life and my family’s life. Everyone here is happy, and I am extremely excited.”

Martinelli was used on the right wing when he entered the game, despite that not being his preferred position. He moved across to the left flank during the closing stages after Dutch winger Crysencio Summerville was substituted.

His arrival at Al Hilal was confirmed on Thursday, leaving him with little time to become familiar with his new team before being included in the squad for the meeting with Al Shabab. The Brazilian was introduced with Al Hilal already in control of the match but could not add to the scoreline.

The forward’s comments reflected the scale of the transition involved, with his move taking him to a new country, a different football environment and a side containing new team-mates. Despite that adjustment period, he made his debut almost immediately after the transfer was completed and celebrated a winning start.

Al Hilal’s success over Al Shabab provided Martinelli with a positive first experience of the Saudi Pro League. His performance also involved adapting to a role on the right before returning to the left late in the match, allowing him to gain his first minutes for the club while operating in more than one wide position.

Martinelli now begins the process of settling into Al Hilal and Saudi football after making his first appearance less than a day after his transfer was announced.