The medical staff of Al-Hilal Saudi Club revealed on Friday evening the latest developments regarding the health condition and rehabilitation program of the first team's two players, captain Salem Al-Dawsari and Portuguese star Ruben Neves, as part of the "Leader's" preparations for the anticipated match against Damac in the Roshan Professional League.
Ruben Neves' gradual return
The Riyadh-based club delivered good news to its fans regarding the team's professional player, Portuguese Ruben Neves. The official statement clarified that the player has successfully completed his rehabilitation program. Neves participated in the first part of the group training session, indicating a positive sign of his imminent return to full participation. Neves' return is a tremendous morale and technical boost for Al-Hilal's midfield, given his exceptional ability to control the tempo of the game and his precise passing, qualities the team needs in the upcoming crucial matches.
Salem Al-Dawsari's situation and the impact of his absence
On the other hand, the statement clarified that star player Salem Al-Dawsari is still continuing his pre-arranged rehabilitation program at the club's medical clinic and fitness center, confirming his lack of full readiness to participate in group training. Al-Dawsari is a key player for both Al-Hilal and the Saudi national team, and his absence presents a challenge for the coaching staff, who will work to find suitable replacements to compensate for the individual and collective contributions that "The Tornado" provides in the attacking third.
The language of numbers confirms the value of the duo
Looking at the statistics for this season, the duo's impact is evident. Salem Al-Dawsari participated in 13 matches, scoring 3 goals and providing 6 assists in 983 minutes of play, highlighting his role as both a playmaker and goalscorer. Meanwhile, Ruben Neves played 17 matches, scoring 5 goals and providing 1 assist in 1439 minutes, figures that reflect his attacking contribution despite his midfield position.
The battle for the top spot and the clash with Damac
These preparations come ahead of Al-Hilal's crucial away match against Damac, scheduled for 8:30 PM next Sunday, as part of the 13th round of the Saudi Professional League. The match is of paramount importance in the title race, as Al-Hilal currently sits in second place with 29 points, just two points behind league leaders Al-Nassr (at the time of writing). A victory is therefore essential to maintain pressure on the top spot and avoid dropping any points that could prove decisive in their quest to retain the title and maintain their fierce competition this season.
