Al Hilal Explore Dembélé Move, Mandi Retires From Algeria And Ankalaev Headlines UFC Abu Dhabi

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From a blockbuster Saudi transfer link to an Algeria farewell and UFC Abu Dhabi drama, there’s plenty happening across regional sport. Al Hilal are exploring a move for Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, Aïssa Mandi has retired from international football as Algeria’s most-capped player, and Magomed Ankalaev will headline UFC Abu Dhabi against Bogdan Guskov after Khalil Rountree Jr withdrew injured.

Al Hilal Explore Blockbuster Dembélé Move

What Is It About
Al Hilal are exploring a blockbuster move for French winger Ousmane Dembélé. According to Sacha Tavolieri for Sky Sport Switzerland, the Saudi club have made initial contact over a possible transfer, but no direct talks have taken place with Paris Saint-Germain yet.

Why It Matters
Dembélé is at the peak of his career. He won the Ballon d’Or after leading PSG to Champions League glory with 37 goals and 15 assists in 2024/25, then added six goals and two assists for France at the 2026 World Cup.

What’s Next
Any move is still at an early stage. Dembélé remains under contract with PSG until 2028 and is also in discussions over a new deal, meaning Al Hilal would need a major breakthrough to turn interest into a real transfer.

Aïssa Mandi Retires From Algeria Duty

What Is It About
Aïssa Mandi has retired from international football after more than 12 years with Algeria. The defender leaves as the most-capped player in the country’s history, with 122 appearances and eight goals since making his debut in 2014.

Why It Matters
Mandi has been one of Algeria’s most important players across a major era for the national team. He represented the country at three World Cups and was part of the squad that won the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

What’s Next
Mandi now closes his Algeria chapter while continuing his club career. After spells with Reims, Real Betis, Villarreal and Lille, he recently returned to La Liga by signing a two-year deal with Levante.

Ankalaev Targets Pereira Trilogy After UFC Abu Dhabi

What Is It About
Magomed Ankalaev will face Bogdan Guskov in the UFC Abu Dhabi main event at Etihad Arena after Khalil Rountree Jr withdrew through injury. According to The National, Guskov accepted the fight on just over a week’s notice.

Why It Matters
Ankalaev says his immediate focus is beating Guskov and returning to the win column before potentially moving up to heavyweight for a third fight with Alex Pereira. The Russian beat Pereira to win the light heavyweight title in March 2025, before losing their rematch at UFC 320.

What’s Next
Ankalaev said injuries affected him in the Pereira rematch and believes a fully healthy version of himself would win a trilogy bout. First, he has to get past Guskov, who enters UFC Abu Dhabi unbeaten in his last five fights.

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