Sérgio Conceição, the Portuguese head coach of Al-Ittihad Club, is actively strategizing for the upcoming match against Al-Ettifaq as he prepares to fill the gap left by suspended midfielder Fabinho. Financial coach Mamadou Doumbia has emerged as a strong candidate to step in, pending his return from international duties with the Mali national team in the Africa Cup of Nations, as reported by Al-Riyadiyah newspaper.
In addition to this important replacement, Conceição is also closely monitoring the fitness of team captain Karim Benzema. The French striker was substituted due to a health concern during the second half of the recent match against Damac. The medical staff is assessing his condition to determine whether he can participate in the crucial fixture against Al-Ettifaq.
Further complicating matters is the ongoing rehabilitation of midfielder Faisal Al-Ghamdi, who is sidelined due to a hamstring injury. His absence has been felt in the squad’s recent games, and his recovery continues off the field.
Al-Ittihad’s final training session, scheduled for today, will provide crucial insights into Benzema’s fitness and the potential tactical adjustments needed ahead of the match at the “Al-Inma” Stadium in King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah. The game is part of the sixteenth round of the Saudi League, where Al-Ittihad currently sits in sixth place with 27 points, closely followed by Al-Ettifaq in seventh place at 22 points. This match represents a pivotal moment for both teams as they vie for improved standings in a competitive league.