Al Hilal, the reigning Saudi Pro League champions, have been dealt a significant blow. The club has been banned from registering new players for the upcoming season, a decision stemming from a long-standing dispute over the signing of midfielder Mohamed Kanno.
The issue dates back to 2021 when Al Hilal signed Kanno from city rivals Al Taawoun. The transfer was completed, but Al Taawoun filed a complaint with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), claiming they were owed additional financial compensation related to the deal.
After a lengthy legal process, the SAFF’s Players’ Status Committee ruled in favor of Al Taawoun. The committee’s decision, which has now been enforced, imposes a transfer ban on Al Hilal for the next registration period. This means the club cannot officially register any new signings for the 2024/2025 season.
This sanction comes at a critical time. Al Hilal, under the guidance of Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, is actively building a squad to compete on multiple fronts, including the AFC Champions League Elite and the pursuit of a domestic double. The ban directly impacts their ability to reinforce the team for these challenges.
Club officials have confirmed the ruling. A statement from Al Hilal acknowledged the ban, attributing it to the “Kanno case” and confirming they are prohibited from registering new professionals for one full registration period. The club has indicated it is reviewing all legal options, including a potential appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Switzerland.
The immediate consequence is that Al Hilal’s planned squad overhaul is now on hold. Any pre-arranged agreements with potential new players cannot be finalized through official registration with the federation. The club’s focus must shift to maximizing its current roster, which still boasts stars like Aleksandar Mitrović, Sergej Milinković-Savić, and Malcom.
For now, the blue half of Riyadh faces a quiet transfer window, forced to watch as their rivals strengthen. All eyes will be on whether the club’s appeal can overturn the decision before the new season begins.
