Hassan Tambakti Returns to Al-Hilal Training: A Boost for Defence

Al-Hilal have just taken a significant step towards fixing their biggest recent problem: the heart of their defence.

Hassan Tambakti is back on the grass.

The Saudi international defender returned to training today, joining the first phase of the session and immediately lifting the mood around the camp. For Simone Inzaghi, preparing for the most demanding stretch of the season, it feels like getting a key piece of his backline back in his hands.

A long wait ends

Tambakti has been sidelined for weeks after picking up an injury while on duty with the Saudi national team during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. That blow forced him into a strict treatment and rehabilitation programme, all geared towards restoring his physical power and technical sharpness.

Today brought the first real sign that the plan is working.

He completed the opening part of the workout with his teammates, a clear indication that his full reintegration into the group is getting close. The next step will be decisive: how his body responds to increased loads, and how quickly he can reach full match fitness.

His return to official games will not be rushed. That call rests with Inzaghi and his staff, who will weigh every minute carefully.

Defence under pressure

The timing, though, could hardly suit Al-Hilal better.

The team have looked vulnerable at the back in recent weeks. Spaces have appeared through the middle, individual errors have crept in, and the backline has lacked its usual authority. Some defenders have dipped in form at the worst possible moment.

Kalidou Koulibaly, normally a rock, has struggled to hit his top level, leaving Inzaghi searching for steadier options in central defence and a more reliable structure in front of his goalkeeper.

Tambakti’s return changes the picture.

What Tambakti brings back

With the Saudi defender edging closer, Inzaghi can start to redraw his defensive map. Tambakti offers strong cover, aggression in duels and a sharp reading of the game, qualities that suit a side looking to tighten up before decisive fixtures.

He is not just another squad option. In Al-Hilal’s calculations, he is central.

His experience in big matches and his ability to stay locked in during high-pressure clashes give the team something they have missed during his absence: a defender who thrives when concentration has to be absolute.

For a club chasing trophies on multiple fronts, that edge matters.

The missing piece?

For now, Tambakti is only back in partial training, but the message is clear: the road to a full return has opened. Inside the club, there is hope that once he regains full sharpness, Inzaghi will finally have the stability he craves at the back.

If Tambakti can quickly rediscover his level, Al-Hilal’s defence may regain the solidity and balance that turns a contender into a champion.