As Real Madrid prepare to open their FIFA Club World Cup campaign in Miami against Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal, a bold admission from the Saudi club’s CEO has set off new speculation surrounding their ambitions. While this matchup is expected to shine with soccer stars like Kylian Mbappe, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and the ever-electrifying Vinicius Junior, it may also mark a new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s high-stakes bid to lure global icons—an effort that’s already brought Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar to the Pro League.
But now, there’s a twist. Al-Hilal’s CEO has made a revealing statement about their ambitions, hinting at renewed efforts to land a top-tier superstar after missing out on Ronaldo this summer before the Club World Cup.
Vinicius enters the Club World Cup in prime form, having recorded 21 goals and 15 assists during the 2024-25 season across all competitions. It marks the third time the 24-year-old Brazilian has crossed both the 20-goal and 15-assist thresholds in a single campaign. He’s not just a winger—he’s the pulse of Madrid’s attack.
The Whites’ opening game at the Hard Rock Stadium will also be the first under new head coach Xabi Alonso, who replaced Carlo Ancelotti following his move into international management. Vinicius is expected to be a key figure in Alonso’s system, especially as Real Madrid chase yet another world title. But off the pitch, the noise around the Brazilian has only grown louder.
Quiet pursuit: Saudi talks and a Billion-Euro Rumor
Despite being under contract until 2027, the 24-year-old had delayed talks about an extension with Madrid during the summer of 2024. According to reports, Saudi Arabian representatives held informal talks with the player’s camp—rumors that included staggering figures like a $1.1 billion contract and a $344-459 million transfer fee.
However, by March 2025, it appeared the forward had agreed in principle to extend his stay in the Spanish capital until 2030. That deal, reportedly worth $115 million over five years, would signal Vinicius’ loyalty to Los Blancos, even in the face of unprecedented financial offers.
Al-Hilal CEO drops a seven-word bombshell
Speaking to Cadena SER, Al-Hilal CEO Esteve Calzada made headlines with his candid assessment of the league’s capabilities. “We’re going all out because we know we have the tools to convince anyone, not just money,” he said, a statement that captured Saudi Arabia’s new philosophy.
Calzada admitted that Saudi Arabia’s soccer league executives had indeed held discussions with top players—though not directly with Vinicius. “In the case of Vinicius, what I can tell you is that there has been absolutely nothing with us directly,” he clarified. “But I wouldn’t be surprised if any player came to Saudi Arabia, including Vinicius.”
He continued: “The country has the intention; it’s a long-term plan, and the clubs have the ambition.” That ambition, however, comes with complications. Calzada also noted that many agents use Saudi interest to raise their clients’ value, admitting: “There’s a lot of lies about everything written about this soccer.”
