Al-Ittihad Saudi Club announced in an official statement the details of the injury sustained by their young defender, Ahmed Al-Julaidan, confirming his absence from the upcoming match against Al-Gharafa of Qatar in the AFC Champions League. This injury comes as a blow to the team's defense at a crucial point in the season.
Injury details and treatment program
A statement issued by Al-Ittihad's media center clarified that thorough medical examinations revealed the player is suffering from a hamstring injury in his right thigh. Following this diagnosis, Al-Jalidan immediately began his treatment and rehabilitation program under the supervision of the club's medical staff, aiming to regain his fitness as soon as possible. The player sustained the injury during the intense match between Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr in the Saudi Professional League, which necessitated his substitution.
The importance of the Asian confrontation and the historical context
The match between Al-Ittihad and Al-Gharafa is of paramount importance to both teams in their journey through the AFC Champions League, the continent's premier club competition. Al-Ittihad, with its rich history in the tournament and two consecutive titles won in 2004 and 2005, seeks to recapture its continental glory and secure positive results that guarantee qualification for the knockout stages. Matches between Saudi and Qatari teams are always highly competitive, adding further excitement and anticipation to this encounter.
The expected impact of the absence of ice
The absence of 21-year-old Ahmed Al-Jalidan is a significant blow to the coach's defensive options. Despite his young age, he has already featured in 23 matches across all competitions this season, accumulating 843 minutes of playing time, demonstrating his growing experience and confidence as a key player for the team's future. The coaching staff will now have to find replacements for him at right-back, putting the depth of the team's bench to the test in a crucial match where half-measures are not an option. Al-Ittihad fans are hoping this absence won't destabilize the team's defense at this critical juncture in the Asian Champions League.
