Former Brazilian Star Sergio Ricardo Opens Up on Al Ahli, Al Hilal and Al Ittihad Memories

Former Brazilian footballer Sergio Ricardo has revisited some of the most memorable moments of his career in Saudi Arabia, discussing his experiences with Al Ahli, Al Hilal and Al Ittihad in an interview with Al Montasaf television programme.

Ricardo, who later embraced Islam and changed his name to Ibrahim, spoke candidly about his relationships with the three clubs, a controversial goal against Al Hilal and the circumstances surrounding his departure from Al Ittihad. “I still don't understand why my goal was disallowed” One of Ricardo's strongest memories remains a disputed goal he scored against Al Hilal while representing Al Ahli.

He said he still does not understand why the referee disallowed the goal, believing the decision ultimately deprived Al Ahli of the Saudi league title. Al Ittihad remains closest to his heart Despite representing three major Saudi clubs, Ricardo identified Al Ittihad as the club closest to his heart.

He clarified that his departure from the Jeddah club was not the result of a dispute with the management as a whole, but rather a disagreement with former club president Mansour Al-Balawi, which eventually led to the termination of his contract.

Ricardo also revealed that he had wanted to remain at Al Hilal, but the club was unwilling to meet his financial expectations. His subsequent move to Al Ittihad, however, became a defining chapter of his career.

He described his time at Al Ittihad as unforgettable, saying the club won his heart and gave him memories he would never forget. Disappointed by Al Hilal's lack of contact Ricardo expressed sadness that Al Hilal officials had not contacted him for 26 years to invite him back to the club.

He believes the club may have forgotten the goals he scored during his time there, particularly in the Asian Champions League. His first experience outside Brazil Reflecting on his spell at Al Ahli, Ricardo described it as a different experience because it was the first time he had worked outside Brazil.

He also shared his perspective on the Saudi Pro League's foreign-player policy, arguing that having eight foreign players can negatively affect the Saudi national team, while adding strength and competitiveness to the domestic league.

Ricardo's interview offered a personal look back at an era of Saudi football through the perspective of a player who represented three of the country's biggest clubs.

Source: Sergio Ricardo's interview with Al Montasaf television programme.