Ali Al-Bulaihi
Saudi Arabian centre-back for Al-Shabab, known for his controversial derby clash with Cristiano Ronaldo.
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.
Quick Facts
- Full name
- Ali Hadi Mohammed Al-Bulaihi
- Born
- 21 November 1989
- Birthplace
- Najran, Saudi Arabia
- Height
- 1.82 m / 6 ft
- Position
- Centre-back
- Current club
- Al-Shabab
Lore & Background
In April 2024, in a derby match against rival team Al Nassr, he courted controversy after being elbowed by Cristiano Ronaldo following attempts to intimidate him, resulting in a red card for Ronaldo and a yellow card for Al-Bulaihi.
Reader's Guide
Al-Bulaihi started his career at Al-Amal where he spent three years before joining Al-Nahda in 2014. On 23 July 2015, he joined Al-Fateh. On 21 June 2017, Al-Hilal signed Al Bulaihi on a free transfer. He signed a three-year contract with the club. On 1 February 2026, Al-Bulaihi joined Al-Shabab on loan for six-month. 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.
Did You Know?
- He made his World Cup debut against Uruguay at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
- In the 2022 FIFA World Cup, he played the whole match as Saudi Arabia defeated eventual world champions Argentina 2–1.
- He drew criticism in January 2024 for shoving and grabbing the hair of South Korean player Son Heung-min during the 2023 AFC Asian Cup round of 16.
More in Club History & Eras
Elsewhere in Al Nassr
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