Malcom’s landmark strike gives Al Hilal a record to remember as transfer rumours grow

Malcom made Al Hilal history by becoming the first player in the club’s history to contribute to five goals across the opening rounds of the Roshn Saudi League, as speculation continues over a possible move away from the club this summer.

The Brazilian winger scored Al Hilal’s second goal in a 4-2 victory over Al Faisaly at Kingdom Arena on Friday. The match was Al Hilal’s opening fixture of the Roshn Saudi League campaign.

Malcom’s goal came in the 26th minute and was the only one of Al Hilal’s four goals scored from open play. He took advantage of an error in the Al Faisaly defence before calmly and skilfully placing the ball into the net.

The achievement, reported by Thmanyah channels, which hold the broadcast rights to the Saudi league, placed Malcom at the top of a significant Al Hilal record. No other player in the club’s history had previously contributed to five goals during the opening rounds of the Roshn Saudi League.

His latest milestone came at a time when his future at Al Hilal is the subject of growing uncertainty. Malcom has been linked with a departure during the current summer transfer window, with possible destinations including Al-Diriyah, clubs in Brazil, Qatar or the United Arab Emirates.

The speculation has emerged despite the winger continuing to make his mark on the pitch. His goal against Al Faisaly helped Al Hilal begin their league campaign with a victory and added another notable achievement to his time in Saudi Arabia.

Malcom joined Al Hilal in the summer of 2023 after leaving Russian club Zenit. Since arriving, he has helped the club win five trophies.

Those honours include the Roshn Saudi League, two King’s Cup titles and two Saudi Super Cup victories. His contribution to the team has therefore coincided with a successful period in the club’s history, while questions remain over whether he will continue at Kingdom Arena beyond the current transfer window.

For now, Malcom’s scoring contribution has secured him a place in Al Hilal’s record books. The Brazilian’s second goal of the match against Al Faisaly was not only important in a 4-2 win, but also ensured he became the first player associated with the club to reach the five-goal contribution mark in the opening rounds of the Roshn Saudi League.