Crysencio Summerville has completed his transfer to Al-Hilal from West Ham United on a four-year contract through 2030, but the Dutch winger will don an unconventional shirt number as he settles into Saudi Arabian football. The 24-year-old has been assigned the number 38, a choice that has raised eyebrows given his recent career trajectory and the typical allocation of high shirt numbers in professional football.
Summerville's selection of number 38 marks a significant departure from his recent preferences. At West Ham, he wore the number 7—one of football's most prestigious shirts—over the past two seasons. Before that, he claimed the number 10 at Leeds United after his promotion to the first team in the 2022-2023 season. The number 38 hasn't featured in his kit rotation since the 2021-2022 campaign, when he briefly wore it during Leeds' under-23 and early first-team appearances. Historically, numbers above 30 are reserved for academy graduates transitioning to senior football, making his assignment at Al-Hilal an unusual choice for an established international talent.
Why the Unexpected Number?
The Dutchman's limited options at his new club explain the situation. Malcom, the Brazilian winger, already occupies the number 10, while Uruguayan striker Darwin Nunez holds the number 7. Both players have been linked with potential departures from the Saudi Pro League side, which could free up either of those preferred shirts for Summerville. Club officials appear willing to accommodate a future change should either established star leave the club. This arrangement reflects Al-Hilal's ongoing squad restructuring as the team continues to build its roster through high-profile signings.
Summerville's move represents another significant international addition to Saudi Arabia's elite club, reinforcing the league's continued investment in European talent. His adaptation to life at Al-Hilal and the club's midfielder and attacking arrangements will be closely monitored throughout the upcoming season.
