Al Hilal Signs Brazilian Left-Back Renan Lodi to Replace Injured Neymar Jr.

Riyadh - Saudi Arabian football club Al Hilal made a significant move in the winter transfer window by announcing the signing of Brazilian left-back Renan Lodi from French side Olympique Marseille. This marks the club's first acquisition during this transfer period and comes as a replacement for the injured Neymar Jr.

Al Hilal took to social media to share a video featuring Lodi in Paris, titled "Destination Saudi Arabia." In the video, Lodi expressed his excitement and anticipation for joining Al Hilal.

Lodi's contract with Al Hilal spans three-and-a-half years, extending until 2027. This transfer follows his recent move from Atlético Madrid to Marseille last summer.

The signing holds particular importance for Al Hilal as the Saudi Pro League imposes restrictions on each club, allowing only eight foreign players to be registered. Prior to acquiring Lodi, Al Hilal already had seven foreign players on their roster, including Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, Kalidou Koulibaly, Brazilian Malcom, Sergej Milinković-Savić, Aleksandar Mitrović, Rúben Neves, and Brazilian winger Michael.

Currently leading the Saudi league with 53 points and holding a seven-point advantage over their closest competitor Al Nassr; this strategic signing further strengthens Al Hilal's position as they aim for continued success in domestic competitions.

With Renan Lodi joining their ranks and bringing his skills and experience to bolster their defense; fans eagerly await seeing him donning the iconic blue jersey of Al Hilal as they strive towards achieving their goals for this season.