In a move aimed at restructuring the squad, Portuguese coach Sergio Conceição, manager of Al-Ittihad's first football team, has given the club's management the green light to begin the process of selling two players during the upcoming winter transfer window. This decision comes as part of the coaching staff's efforts to streamline the roster and replace underperforming players with local talent capable of making a significant contribution in the second half of the season.
Details of the decision to dismiss Al-Bishi and Al-Nashri
According to well-informed sources within Al-Ittihad, coach Conceição has finalized his decision regarding Awad Al-Nashri and his teammate Abdulaziz Al-Bishi . The Portuguese coach confirmed that he does not require the duo's services in the upcoming phase, indicating that their continued presence would not add anything new to the team given their lack of playing time in official matches since he took over. This move aims to free up space in the squad to bring in fresh talent, as the coach seeks to recruit local players with the physical and technical attributes that align with his playing style.
Victims of artistic change and fierce competition
The departure of the duo came as no surprise to those following Al-Ittihad's affairs, as both players had been completely absent from the scene since Conceição's arrival. Abdulaziz Al-Bishi, once a key player, has suffered from inconsistent form and a series of injuries that have hampered his career, leading to his exclusion from the plans of successive coaches. As for Awad Al-Nashri, he found it extremely difficult to secure a regular starting position in Al-Ittihad's midfield, which is teeming with international and local stars, making his chances of playing almost nonexistent.
Abu Dhabi camp... the beginning of a new phase
Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad's first football team is preparing to enter a closed training camp in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. The coaching staff is placing great importance on this camp, with coach Conceição aiming to utilize the break to improve the players' fitness levels and enhance the cohesion among the key players. This camp is part of a comprehensive preparation plan for upcoming competitions, as Al-Ittihad will be competing on several domestic and continental fronts, requiring all available players to be fully prepared.
The challenges facing the Dean in the next stage
Al-Ittihad faces significant challenges this season due to the intense competition in Saudi football following the recent surge in player signings. The winter transfer window presents a golden opportunity to correct course and address the weaknesses exposed in the first half of the season. The coming days are expected to see considerable activity within the club as they seek to replace departing players with high-caliber signings, ensuring the team remains competitive for titles and brings joy to its vast fan base.
