Al-Nassr FC received a significant morale and technical boost at the start of a crucial week in their season, with the confirmation that Sami Al-Najei and Saad Al-Nasser are fit and ready to participate in the first team's group training sessions. This return comes at an ideal time, just before the team resumes its campaign in the AFC Champions League and continues its fierce competition for the Saudi Professional League title.
Al-Najai and Al-Nasser have successfully completed their rehabilitation and treatment programs after suffering muscle injuries that sidelined them for some time. Final medical examinations confirmed their full recovery, allowing Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus to include them in the squad preparing for the second leg of the Asian Champions League Round of 16. This gives the coach additional tactical options and depth in the midfield, a crucial area in his plans.
General context: Victory at the heart of the double competition
Al-Nassr is experiencing an exceptional season that demands complete readiness from all its players, as the club competes fiercely on two main fronts. Domestically, the team occupies second place in the Saudi Professional League standings, just one point behind its arch-rival Al-Hilal, the league leader, making every upcoming match a final where dropping points is unacceptable. Continentally, Al-Nassr carries the hopes of its fans to win the AFC Champions League title for the first time in its modern format, a dream that represents a top priority for the club's management and its world-class stars, led by Cristiano Ronaldo.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
Domestically, the return of Al-Najai and Al-Nasser gives coach Jesus the ability to implement a more effective rotation policy, which is essential to avoid overworking key players given the congested fixture schedule. Having equally capable substitutes ensures maintaining a high level of performance and reduces the risk of further injuries. On the Asian stage, the second leg against Turkmenistan's Arkadağ requires complete focus to secure passage to the quarterfinals. With a full squad, Al-Nassr enters the match with high morale and greater confidence in its ability to secure qualification and continue its quest for continental glory, reflecting the significant progress of Saudi football on the international stage.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Raghed Al-Najjar continues his rehabilitation program, while the coaching staff anticipates the imminent return of young Iraqi player Haider Abdul-Karim to group training. Coach Jesus intensified preparations after granting the players a short break following their recent victory over Al-Fateh, focusing training on both physical and technical aspects to ensure the team reaches peak readiness for the upcoming challenging phase.
