RIYADH — In a poignant announcement, Al-Hilal Football Club officially parts ways with Jang Hyun-soo in the face of a formidable health challenge. The esteemed South Korean defender's journey with the club was characterized by dedication and courage. As the curtain falls on the previous sports season, Jang Hyun-soo was faced with the diagnosis of a benign lymph node tumor, compelling the club to rally behind him as he underwent treatment in the Saudi capital Riyadh. On their official "X" platform account, Al-Hilal expressed their sentiments, stating, "Thank you, Jang. Together, we wrote history." Jang Hyun-soo's contract with Al-Hilal had expired at the end of the previous sports season. The club had initiated negotiations with Jang to extend his contract for an additional year, and the talks had been proceeding smoothly toward an extension. However, in the final days of the past season, Jang began to experience some discomfort, prompting him to seek medical attention. The diagnosis revealed a benign lymph node tumor, causing Al-Hilal's management to reconsider their plans for foreign player signings. In light of Jang's health condition, Al-Hilal decided to secure the services of Senegalese defender Khalidou Koulibaly while taking full responsibility for Jang's medical expenses. Jang, who had earlier confirmed his complete recovery from cancer, is currently undergoing radiation therapy to prevent a recurrence of the disease. Jang Hyun-soo made an appearance at Al-Hilal's headquarters on Wednesday to bid farewell to his fellow teammates. He spent four seasons with the club since joining in the summer of 2019. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in Al-Hilal's success, contributing to the team's achievement of eight championships. These accolades included three Saudi Professional League titles, two AFC Champions League titles, two King's Cup victories, and one Saudi Super Cup triumph. As Jang Hyun-soo departs from Al-Hilal, his journey serves as a testament to the resilience and the unyielding support of the club. His story will forever be a part of Al-Hilal's rich history, marked by moments of triumph and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
