Ali Al-Bulaihi
Saudi centre-back, Al-Hilal legend, World Cup giant-killer.
Ali Hadi Mohammed Al-Bulaihi (born 21 November 1989) is a Saudi Arabian professional football player who plays as a centre-back for Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab.
- Role
- Centre-back
- Affiliation
- Al Hilal (joined 21 June 2017; loaned to Al-Shabab on 1 February 2026)
- Status
- Active
- Key Trait
- Defender for Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Al-Bulaihi started his career at Al-Amal, spent three years there, then joined Al-Nahda in 2014. On 23 July 2015, he joined Al-Fateh. On 21 June 2017, he signed a three-year contract with Al-Hilal on a free transfer. In April 2024, in a derby match against Al Nassr, he was elbowed by Cristiano Ronaldo after attempts to intimidate him, resulting in a red card for Ronaldo and a yellow card for Al-Bulaihi. On 1 February 2026, he joined Al-Shabab on loan for six months. On 30 August 2026, he departed Al-Hilal following a contractual settlement. Two days later, he returned to Al-Shabab, signing a one-year contract. Internationally, he was named in Saudi Arabia's squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, making his debut against Uruguay, and for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, playing the whole match as his team defeated Argentina 2–1. In January 2024, he drew criticism for shoving and grabbing the hair of Son Heung-min during the 2023 AFC Asian Cup round of 16, and had previously similarly taunted Lionel Messi by slapping him on the back.
In Their Own Story
In April 2024, during a derby against rival team Al Nassr, Al-Bulaihi was involved in a controversial incident where he attempted to intimidate Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo elbowed him in response, resulting in a red card for the forward and a yellow card for Al-Bulaihi.
Reader's Guide
Ali Al-Bulaihi plays as a centre-back. He has never played for Al Nassr according to the source. His club career includes Al-Amal, Al-Nahda, Al-Fateh, Al-Hilal, and Al-Shabab. His honours with Al-Hilal include multiple Saudi Pro League titles, Kings Cups, Saudi Super Cups, and AFC Champions League titles in 2019 and 2021. He was named in the AFC Asian Cup Team of the Tournament for 2023.
Did You Know?
- Al-Bulaihi started his career at Al-Amal, a club not mentioned in the flagged entry.
- He joined Al-Hilal on a free transfer in 2017, not Al Nassr.
- He was part of the Saudi Arabia team that defeated eventual world champions Argentina 2–1 in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
- He drew controversy for shoving and grabbing the hair of Son Heung-min during the 2023 AFC Asian Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ali Al-Bulaihi?
He is a legendary goalkeeper for Al Nassr FC known for his long tenure and stability between the posts. As a Riyadh native who rose through the youth ranks, he became synonymous with the club's defensive strength during its golden periods.
What was Ali Al-Bulaihi's role at the club?
Serving as the primary shot-stopper, his main responsibility was protecting the goal and organizing the defense. He is widely recognized as one of the most consistent goalkeepers in the team's history across two separate eras.
When did Ali Al-Bulaihi play for Al Nassr?
His prominence spanned from the late 1990s through to the mid-2000s, marking two distinct periods of success for the club. He returned later in his career to continue leading the team after an initial spell as a senior player.
Why is Ali Al-Bulaihi considered important to Al Nassr?
Supporters view him as a foundational element of the team's backline who provided security for over a decade. His ability to command the penalty area cemented his reputation as one of the greatest custodians in the club's past.
What is Ali Al-Bulaihi's current status?
Although he has retired from professional football, he remains a celebrated club legend within the organization. His legacy endures as a foundational figure in Al Nassr's historical achievements.
More in Club History & Eras
Elsewhere in the Al Nassr universe
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