Al-Hilal’s upcoming match against Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League has gained added significance with the recent acquisition of England striker Ollie Watkins. The 30-year-old forward joined Al-Hilal from Aston Villa in a transfer valued at approximately $70 million, marking one of the most notable moves of the summer transfer window.
Watkins, who recently returned from the 2026 FIFA World Cup where England secured third place, is a well-established figure in English football. He is particularly remembered for scoring the decisive late goal in England’s 2024 European Championship semifinal victory over the Netherlands. During his tenure at Aston Villa, the club that won the European Cup in 1982, Watkins scored 69 goals in 221 appearances and contributed 39 assists. He made over 300 appearances for Villa and was highly regarded by fans for his work ethic and ability to create scoring opportunities. His achievements include helping Aston Villa claim the Europa League title last May.
Watkins’ move to the Saudi Pro League also represents a shift from European competitions to the Asian Champions League, which Al-Hilal will participate in. For the Saudi club, the signing underscores the league’s growing appeal beyond its traditional focus on recruiting younger talent aiming to develop and return to European leagues. Al-Hilal, the most decorated club in Asia with 19 league titles and four continental crowns, finished second in the previous season despite remaining unbeaten, a result deemed insufficient by the club’s high standards.
The arrival of Watkins is expected to bolster an already potent Al-Hilal attack. The team has demonstrated its offensive strength early in the season, scoring nine goals across their first two games. Notably, five different players found the net in a commanding first-half performance against Al-Ekholood. New signings like Crysencio Summerville, the club’s earlier marquee acquisition, have also made an impact, alongside contributions from players like Mohamed Kader Micic, Sergej Milinkovic Savic, Theo Hernandez, and Sultan Mandash.
While fans are eager to see Watkins in action, head coach Simone Inzaghi faces the task of integrating the striker into a squad that is already performing well offensively. Watkins is expected to deliver immediate results as a proven goal scorer, providing a different dimension compared to younger players who typically require time to adapt and develop.
The forthcoming match between Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli promises to be a highlight of the Saudi Pro League season, with Watkins set to make his debut in what is already one of the country’s most anticipated football encounters.