Al-Hilal complete $35m signing of teenage striker Meite as forward makes SPL debut

Al-Hilal completed the signing of teenage striker Mohamed Kader Meite from Rennes for a reported 30 million euros ($35.3 million), with the 18-year-old making his Saudi Pro League debut in Monday’s 0-0 draw against Al-Ahli. (X/@AlHilal_EN)
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Updated 02 February 2026
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Al-Hilal complete $35m signing of teenage striker Meite as forward makes SPL debut

  • Player destined for Premier League in future years, says football expert

RIYADH: Al-Hilal completed the signing of teenage striker Mohamed Kader Meite from Rennes for a reported 30 million euros ($35.3 million), with the 18-year-old making his Saudi Pro League debut in Monday’s 0-0 draw against Al-Ahli.

Meite has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with the Riyadh club following interest from several Premier League sides. The deal makes him the second-highest non-Premier League signing of the winter transfer window.

The French-born forward, who is of Ivorian descent, came through Rennes’ youth system before breaking into the first team and signing his first professional contract in November 2024.

He went on to make 32 appearances for the Ligue 1 side, scoring five goals and providing two assists, while also representing France across four youth levels.

Meite was introduced in the second half against Al-Ahli, replacing Darwin Nunez, as Al-Hilal collected a third successive league draw.

FootballTransfers’ Paul Macdonald told BBC Sport the move underlined Saudi clubs’ growing focus on young talent, while French football expert Julien Laurens described Meite as a “modern number nine” with “huge potential.”

Laurens added that the striker is “strong, quick, hungry and good on the ball,” and predicted he could eventually move to the Premier League.


Dubai Basketball launches ‘Basket for Basket’ Ramadan initiative

Updated 24 February 2026
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Dubai Basketball launches ‘Basket for Basket’ Ramadan initiative

  • Project with Dubai Sports Council and UAE Food Bank takes place at EuroLeague match on Thursday

DUBAI: Dubai Basketball has announced a special Ramadan initiative for its upcoming EuroLeague home fixture against LDLC ASVEL on Thursday, Feb. 26.

In the spirit of giving that defines the holy month, the team will donate one meal for every point scored by the home team during the game. In addition, every ticket purchased for the game will equal one meal donated to families in need across the UAE.

Delivered in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council and the UAE Food Bank, the initiative reflects Dubai Basketball’s commitment to creating meaningful social impact beyond the court, the team stated in a release on Tuesday.

As Dubai’s first professional sports franchise competing in European competitions, the team wants to be a competitive force internationally and community-driven institution.

Dejan Kamenjasevic, CEO of Dubai Basketball, highlighted the importance of the initiative. “Ramadan is a time of reflection, unity and generosity.

“As a team that proudly represents Dubai on an international stage, we believe our responsibility goes far beyond basketball. This city has given us an incredible platform, support system and belief, and it is our duty to give back in a way that reflects the values of the nation.”

“Through this initiative, every point scored, and every ticket purchased becomes something bigger than the game.

“Our ambition is not only to compete at the highest level in Europe but also to build a team that contributes to the community and supports the people who make the Dubai dream possible.”