Ali Al-Bulayhi has been left out of Al-Shabab’s squad for there upcoming match against Neom, after a controversial celebration incident. The experienced center-back, who is on loan from Al-Hilal, caused quite a stir by holding up a photo of himself in an Al-Hilal shirt after scoring against Al-Nassr. This was seen as a pretty provocative act, and it led to his exclusion as Al-Shabab looks to maintain decorum and sportsmanship within the team.
- Ali Al-Bulayhi was dropped from Al-Shabab’s squad for the Neom game.
- The celebration incident involved an Al-Hilal shirt.
- Al-Bulayhi’s on-field provocations have been a recurring theme.
Ali Al-Bulayhi’s Celebration Sparks Controversy
Ali Al-Bulayhi’s recent actions have put him in the spotlight, and not for good reasons. His celebration, which was seen as a provocative gesture because of his ties with Al-Hilal led to him being dropped from Al-Shabab’s squad. This decision really shows the clubs commitment to sportsmanship. Al-Bulayhi’s history of on-field provocations has honestly been a recurring theme throughout his whole career.
AL-SHABAB DROP AL-BULAYHI FROM THE SQUAD… ⚪️⚫️
Official decision. Ali Al-Bulayhi excluded from the squad traveling for Neom game.
Reason?
His celebration after scoring against Al-Nassr… Holding a photo of himself in an Al-Hilal shirt — @ariyadhiah_br https://t.co/g1BboW4hkH— All About SPL 🔔 🇸🇦 (@Saudifutbol)
May 10, 2026
Al-Bulayhi’s Career at a Glance
Born in Najran, Saudi Arabia, Ali Al-Bulayhi has had quite a distinguished career. He started out with Al-Amal and played for clubs like Al-Nahda and Al-Fateh before eventually joining Al-Hilal back in 2017. During his time with Al-Hilal, he won multiple titles including Saudi Pro League and AFC Champions League trophies. His loan move to Al-Shabab in 2026 was meant to strengthen there defense, but recent controversies have really overshadowed his contributions to the team. Al-Bulayhi has also been involved in incidents with high-profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Al-Hilal’s Transitional Phase
Al-Bulayhi’s situation comes at the same time as a transitional phase at his parent club Al-Hilal. The club recently parted ways with Jorge Jesus due to unsatisfactory performances, and appointed Mohammed Al-Shalhoub as interim manager. Al-Hilal is now looking for a high-profile replacement, with names like Carlo Ancelotti and Roberto De Zerbi being thrown around in consideration. This period of change just adds more complexity to Al-Bulayhi’s situation, as the club tries to navigate it’s future direction while also dealing with player controversies.
For more details on Al-Hilal’s managerial changes, check out:
