Kalidou Koulibaly has opened up on life in Saudi Arabia, following his exit from Chelsea during the summer transfer window.

The Senegal international spent one year at Stamford Bridge before moving to Al Hilal, where he now plays alongside Neymar Jr.

Speaking about his new surrounding, the centre back said: “The country surprised me, even the city. Life is very beautiful, the people are respectful. They immediately put me at ease. It’s a little hot, but it’s a wonderful experience.

“There are many differences with Europe. It’s very hot and we train in the evening, around 7 or 8 pm. I discovered many new things. I am lucky enough to play with great footballers.

“Neymar is a great footballer, one of the best I have ever played with. We have the wrong image of him, I see a different person compared to social media. I see a great professional, he is not yet at 100% but he will grow.

“He is a very good and kind person who likes to joke. To those who say he is an arrogant person, it is exactly the opposite, he always stops to take photos with the fans and is very helpful.”