Lisbon, Portugal – In a surprising revelation during a recent appearance on the popular Egyptian television program “Ramz Level Al-Wahsh” (Ramz’s Monster Level), Saudi Arabian footballer Saleh Abu Shamat has publicly stated his preference for joining Al-Hilal over their rivals, Al-Nassr. The الأهلي player’s comments, broadcast on MBC Egypt during the month of Ramadan 2026, have ignited discussion among fans and analysts regarding his potential future with the Saudi Pro League clubs. This declaration comes amidst speculation about Abu Shamat’s potential departure from الأهلي, and highlights the intense rivalry between the two Saudi football giants.
The appearance on “Ramz Level Al-Wahsh,” a show known for its elaborate pranks and celebrity guests, provided an unexpected platform for Abu Shamat to express his footballing preferences. While the context of the revelation was within the framework of the show’s entertainment, the footballer’s clear statement has been widely reported and analyzed by sports media outlets across the Arab world. The program, hosted by Egyptian comedian Ramz Galal, has become a cultural phenomenon during Ramadan, drawing large viewership and generating significant social media buzz. According to reports, Abu Shamat was subjected to one of the show’s signature pranks before making his comments, adding an element of surprise to his candid response.
Abu Shamat’s Preference for Al-Hilal
When directly asked which club he would choose if offered contracts from both Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr, Abu Shamat unequivocally stated, “I would choose Al-Hilal.” This preference, while not entirely unexpected given Al-Hilal’s consistent success and stature within Saudi football, is nonetheless significant. Al-Hilal boasts a record number of Saudi Professional League titles and is a perennial contender in Asian Champions League competitions. The club’s strong financial backing and ambitious recruitment strategy have further solidified its position as a dominant force in the region. Al-Nassr, has been undergoing a period of rebuilding, and while they possess a passionate fanbase, they have struggled to match Al-Hilal’s consistent performance in recent years.
This preference is particularly noteworthy given the fierce rivalry between the two clubs, known as the Riyadh Derby. The match between Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr is one of the most highly anticipated events in the Saudi football calendar, drawing massive crowds and generating intense media coverage. Abu Shamat’s public endorsement of Al-Hilal is likely to further fuel the rivalry and add another layer of intrigue to future encounters between the two teams. The player’s comments also raise questions about his potential motivations, with some speculating that he may be seeking a move to a club with a greater chance of winning trophies and competing at the highest level.
Desire to Observe Salem Al-Dossari at الأهلي
Beyond his club preference, Abu Shamat also expressed his desire to see Salem Al-Dossari, the captain of Al-Hilal and a key player for the Saudi national team, join الأهلي. He described Al-Dossari as a “distinctive player” who would be a valuable addition to any team. “I wish Salem Al-Dossari, the player of Al-Hilal Saudi Arabia, would move to الأهلي,” Abu Shamat stated. Al-Dossari is widely regarded as one of the most talented Saudi footballers of his generation, known for his skillful dribbling, accurate passing, and ability to score crucial goals. Sport360 reports that Abu Shamat considers Al-Dossari to be the best local player and a symbol of the national team’s strength.
The prospect of Al-Dossari joining الأهلي is intriguing, given his long-standing association with Al-Hilal. However, We see not entirely unprecedented for players to switch allegiances between rival clubs in Saudi Arabia, particularly as the league becomes increasingly competitive and financially attractive. Al-Dossari’s potential move to الأهلي could significantly strengthen the club’s attacking options and provide a boost to their title aspirations. It would also represent a significant coup for الأهلي, demonstrating their ambition to compete with the league’s top teams.
Abu Shamat’s Current Season Performance
Prior to his appearance on “Ramz Level Al-Wahsh,” Saleh Abu Shamat had a productive season with الأهلي, featuring in 33 matches and contributing with 3 goals and 2 assists, as reported by صحيفة الوئام (Alweeam). This performance underscores his value to الأهلي and explains the interest from other clubs. His versatility and ability to contribute both offensively and defensively make him a sought-after asset in the Saudi Professional League. The 2025-2026 season has seen a significant increase in the quality of football in Saudi Arabia, with the influx of high-profile international players attracting greater attention and investment.
The Saudi Professional League has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, attracting a wave of international stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema. This influx of talent has raised the league’s profile and competitiveness, attracting greater viewership and investment. The league’s ambition is to become one of the top football leagues in the world, and the arrival of these high-profile players is a key step towards achieving that goal. The increased competition has also benefited local players, providing them with the opportunity to learn from and compete against some of the best players in the world.
Ramadan Entertainment and Athlete Appearances
Abu Shamat’s appearance on “Ramz Level Al-Wahsh” is part of a broader trend of athletes appearing on popular Ramadan television programs. These appearances provide a platform for athletes to connect with fans in a more informal and entertaining setting. Ramadan is a significant cultural event in the Arab world, and television programs play a central role in the festivities. The combination of entertainment and celebrity appearances makes these programs highly popular and widely watched.
Other notable figures who have appeared on “Ramz Level Al-Wahsh” this Ramadan include عصام صاصا (Essam Sasa), أحمد سيد زيزو (Ahmed Sayed Zizo), and other prominent athletes and entertainers. The show’s popularity has led to increased media coverage of these appearances, further amplifying the reach of the athletes and their messages. The program’s format, which involves elaborate pranks and unexpected challenges, often elicits humorous reactions from the guests, providing entertainment for viewers.
The Question of Compensation for TV Appearances
Reports have surfaced regarding the compensation received by athletes for appearing on “Ramz Level Al-Wahsh.” إرم نيوز (Erem News) reports on speculation surrounding the financial arrangements for these appearances, though specific figures remain unconfirmed. These appearances represent a lucrative opportunity for athletes to supplement their income and enhance their public profile.
The increasing commercialization of sports has led to a rise in endorsement deals and appearance fees for athletes. As athletes become more recognizable and influential, they attract greater interest from brands and media outlets. This trend is particularly evident in the Saudi Professional League, where the influx of international stars has raised the profile of the league and its players. The financial rewards for athletes are now greater than ever before, reflecting their value as both sporting icons and marketing assets.
As Saleh Abu Shamat’s future remains a topic of speculation, his recent comments have undoubtedly added fuel to the fire. Whether he ultimately joins Al-Hilal or remains with الأهلي, his talent and ambition will continue to be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The Saudi Professional League is poised for continued growth and excitement, and Abu Shamat is sure to play a role in its ongoing evolution.
The next key development will be any official announcements from الأهلي or Al-Hilal regarding Abu Shamat’s potential transfer. Fans and media will be closely monitoring the situation for updates. Stay tuned to World Today Journal for further coverage of this developing story and the latest news from the Saudi Professional League.