Gabriel Martinelli has arrived in Riyadh with a clear goal: he wants to win. The Brazilian winger, newly signed from Arsenal, made it clear he expects to fight for titles with Al Hilal and meet the expectations of the club's fans. His transfer is one of the most talked-about moves in Saudi football this year.
Al Hilal confirmed the signing on 2 September 2026, announcing a four-year contract that runs through 2030. Martinelli will wear the number 7 shirt, a sign of the club's trust in him. Reuters reported the deal was completed for a fee of about £60 million, with earlier estimates from British media ranging from €65-70 million including add-ons. The size of the investment brings added pressure to deliver.
The transfer was funded by Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, with Al Hilal stating Martinelli would join first-team training the same evening ahead of the Al-Shabab match.
Martinelli said the decision to move was not made alone. "I spoke with my agents, and they told me about Al Hilal's interest," he said on the club's official X account. "After that, I had a meeting with Simon Francis, who explained everything about the club and what's waiting for me here." He also stressed that his family's opinion mattered: "It was a decisive moment. I talked with my wife and parents, and everyone was genuinely happy."
He pointed to Al Hilal's recent performances as a key factor. "I watched the FIFA Club World Cup, especially the match where Al Hilal beat Manchester City. That performance showed me the team's strength and convinced me we can compete with Europe's best."
Martinelli joins a club with a history of Brazilian players, including Neymar and Rivellino. Al Hilal's official coverage notes this tradition, and Martinelli said, "It's an honour to join a club with such a history of Brazilian stars. Wearing this shirt means fighting for every ball and every trophy."
Before the official confirmation, Arsenal had already granted Martinelli permission to travel to Saudi Arabia for medicals and contract formalities, indicating the move was in its final stage. Al Hilal's board, headed by Prince Nawaf bin Saad, signed Martinelli to represent the first team for four years, and follow-up coverage confirmed he was expected to take part immediately in preparations for the next league fixture.
Martinelli's arrival is a major move for Al Hilal. The club is building a squad to compete for every trophy, and Martinelli's record at Arsenal-278 appearances, 62 goals, 36 assists over seven seasons-makes him a key part of that plan.
He already feels the expectations. "Fans have been sending messages on Instagram and elsewhere. It's clear they're passionate, and I'm eager to get started with my new teammates. The coach's reputation is excellent, and I've heard only good things."
For both Martinelli and Al Hilal, this is a calculated risk. The club wants to show the Saudi Pro League can attract top players in their prime, not just those nearing retirement. For Martinelli, it's a chance to lead, win, and join the list of club legends. If he delivers on his promises, Al Hilal's investment could change the balance of football in the region and send a message to Europe's top clubs.
