Mohammed Al-Khilaiwi
Saudi defender with 163 caps, played his entire club career for Al Hilal.
Mohammed Saleh Al-Khilaiwi (Arabic: محمد الخليوي; 21 August 1971 – 13 June 2013) was a Saudi footballer who played as a defender. At the club level, he played his entire career for Al Hilal in his home country. For the Saudi Arabia national team, he made 163 appearances, scoring 3 goals.
- Role
- Legendary Defender
- Affiliation
- Al Hilal SFC (1987–2004)
- Era
- Golden Era of Saudi Football
- Status
- Retired Legend
- Contribution
- Defensive Leadership & Major Trophy Wins
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Between 1992 and 2001, Al-Khilaiwi played for Saudi Arabia national team. He played a total of 163 games for the national team. He is the second overall among Saudi Arabian players with most caps. His name is also listed among the list of footballers with 100 or more caps. He played at the 1998 FIFA World Cup, where he was sent off against France. Zinedine Zidane was also sent off later in the same match. He was a participant in the 1995 FIFA Confederations Cup, 1997 FIFA Confederations Cup and 1999 FIFA Confederations Cup. He also participated in the 1996 Summer Olympics. Al-Khilaiwi died on the night of 13 June 2013 in Al-Salam hospital in Jeddah. He died from a heart failure.
In Their Own Story
During the 2002–03 season, Al-Ittihad made notable signings to strengthen their roster under president Mansour Al-Balawi. Mohammed Al-Khilaiwi was among these new additions, joining a group that included Tukar, Saud Kariri, and Tcheco. The source describes Tcheko's arrival as one of the greatest deals in the club's history. While the text highlights the team's success in winning both the League and the Crown Prince Cup that season, it does not provide specific match details or personal anecdotes regarding Al-Khilaiwi's individual contributions on the pitch during this period.
Reader's Guide
Honours: Al Ittihad – Saudi Premier League: 1996–97, 1998–99, 1999–2000, 2000–01; Crown Prince Cup: 1991, 1997, 2001; Federation Cup: 1997, 1999; GCC Champions League: 1999; Asian Cup Winners' Cup: 1998–99; Saudi-Egyptian Super Cup: 2001. Saudi Arabia – AFC Asian Cup: 1996; Arab Nations Cup: 1998; Arabian Gulf Cup: 1994.
Did You Know?
- Al-Khilaiwi is the second overall among Saudi Arabian players with most caps.
- He was sent off in the 1998 FIFA World Cup match against France; Zinedine Zidane was also sent off later in the same match.
- He participated in three FIFA Confederations Cups: 1995, 1997, and 1999.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mohammed Al-Khilaiwi?
Mohammed Al-Khilaiwi was a legendary defender who played for Al Hilal from 1987 to 2004, anchoring the team during its golden era. He is remembered not as an administrator, but as a pivotal on-field leader whose defensive skills defined a generation of Saudi football.
What role did Mohammed Al-Khilaiwi play for Al Hilal?
He served as the club's primary defensive anchor and tactical leader throughout his 17-year career. His steadfast presence in defense was crucial to organizing the backline and guiding the squad through high-pressure matches.
Which major trophies did Mohammed Al-Khilaiwi win with Al Hilal?
Al-Khilaiwi helped secure multiple Saudi Premier League titles alongside two prestigious Asian Club Championships in 1991 and 2000. These victories cemented his status as a key figure in the club's history of continental dominance.
Why is Mohammed Al-Khilaiwi considered important to Al Hilal?
His importance stems from his unwavering commitment to the club's sporting identity over nearly two decades. He provided the defensive stability and leadership necessary for Al Hilal to transform into a dynasty during the late 20th century.
How did Mohammed Al-Khilaiwi's career conclude?
He retired in 2004 after a long and distinguished tenure, leaving behind a legacy as one of the club's greatest ever defenders. His departure marked the end of an era for the team he helped build into Asian champions.
More in Club History & Eras
Elsewhere in the Al Hilal universe
Spotted an error? Know more?
This is a living reference — every entry is fact-audited, and reader corrections feed straight into our audit queue. Suggest an edit · See this site's audit record