Al-Bulayhi Leaves Al Hilal, Hamza Makes Barcelona History And Arabian Falcons Start With A Win

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From Ali Al-Bulayhi’s Al Hilal farewell to Hamza Abdelkarim’s historic Barcelona debut and Arabian Falcons’ winning start under Jonjo Shelvey, there’s plenty happening across regional sport. Al-Bulayhi has left Al Hilal after nine years, Hamza became the first Egyptian to play an official match for Barcelona, and Arabian Falcons opened their UAE Second Division season with a 2-1 win.

Ali Al-Bulayhi Leaves Al Hilal After Nine Years

What Is It About
Ali Al-Bulayhi has brought his nine-year spell with Al Hilal to an end after the club and player agreed to terminate his contract by mutual consent. The Saudi defender’s deal had been due to run until 2027, but his departure now closes a long chapter with the Riyadh club.

Why It Matters
Al-Bulayhi joined Al Hilal in 2017 and became one of the squad’s most recognisable figures during one of the club’s most successful eras. He leaves with 16 trophies, including five Saudi Pro League titles, two AFC Champions League titles, four King’s Cups and three Saudi Super Cups.

What’s Next
In his final interview, Al-Bulayhi said it was difficult to leave a club he had become deeply attached to. He said Al Hilal has a special effect on players, adding that even foreign signings often leave after a few years with strong love for the club.

Hamza Abdelkarim Makes Official Barcelona Debut

What Is It About
Hamza Abdelkarim has made his official competitive debut for Barcelona, coming on for Raphinha in the closing minutes of their 5-2 La Liga win over Rayo Vallecano at Spotify Camp Nou.

Why It Matters
The 18-year-old Egyptian striker had already impressed during pre-season, finishing as Barcelona’s top scorer with four goals. His debut also made him the first Egyptian to play an official match for Barcelona.

What’s Next
Hamza’s rise now moves from pre-season promise to official first-team minutes. After previously saying he dreamed of reaching Mohamed Salah’s level, his Barcelona breakthrough makes that dream feel a little closer.

Arabian Falcons Open Season With Win Under Jonjo Shelvey

What Is It About
Arabian Falcons have started their 2026/27 UAE Second Division campaign with a 2-1 away win over Legentus FC. The result gives Jonjo Shelvey three points at the start of his first full season in charge.

Why It Matters
The former Newcastle midfielder is leading a project built around experienced names and developing players. Danny Simpson is involved as player-coach, Ravel Morrison is part of the senior setup, and Jason Puncheon serves as Co-Owner and Head of Football Operations.

What’s Next
Arabian Falcons have also launched an academy and player pathway connecting young players directly with first-team football. Shelvey’s target is clear: win the league and push for promotion, with Modern Sport next up on September 11 at 9:00 PM.

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SMASHI MOMENTS

• From saying he dreamed of reaching Mohamed Salah’s level to stepping onto the pitch for Barcelona’s first team.

• Hamza Abdelkarim was seen hugging his mother after making his official first team debut against Rayo Vallecano

• Ali Al-Bulayhi has brought his nine-year spell with Al Hilal to an end after the club and player agreed to terminate his contract by mutual consent

• Al Nassr U23 coaching staff was not allowed on the field, and was forced to attend from the stands.

• Salah was surrounded by fans in Hungary ahead of Trabzonspor’s match against Ferencvaros in the UEFA Europa League

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