Greek coach Giorgos Donis, manager of the first football team at Al-Khaleej Club, ended the state of confusion that had gripped the technical staff during the past few days regarding the selection of the appropriate replacement to compensate for the absence of full-back and pivot player Murad Hawsawi, before the anticipated and difficult match against Al-Hilal Club, the title holder and leader of the standings, within the competitions of the eleventh round of the Saudi Professional League.
The experienced coach decided to field Majed Kanabah as the cornerstone of the game plan, supported by his teammate Saleh Al-Amri in midfield, to fill the gap left by Housawi's absence. This forced move comes after confirmation that Housawi is unavailable due to a severe muscle injury he recently sustained, requiring a treatment and rehabilitation program that will prevent him from participating in the crucial match against Al-Hilal.
In a related development, Al-Dana fans breathed a sigh of relief after receiving positive news regarding the team's attacking options, as it was confirmed that Norwegian star Joshua King, the team's veteran striker, is ready to return to official matches. King is considered a major asset to Donis's squad, especially after his full recovery from a muscle injury that sidelined him for over four weeks, depriving the team of one of its most important attacking options and a player with experience gained in European leagues.
This match is of paramount importance to both teams. Al-Khaleej enters the game fully aware of the daunting task ahead against Al-Hilal, a team brimming with international stars and delivering exceptional performances both domestically and continentally. Coach Donis aims to utilize the recent break to regroup his tactical approach and strive for a positive result against the league's most potent attack, relying on a solid defense and swift counter-attacks spearheaded by the returning Joshua King.
Al-Khaleej Club is looking to return to winning ways and get back on track in the Roshan League standings, especially after their recent setback against Al-Nassr before the international break. The match against Al-Hilal will be a true test of the team's ability to compete against top teams. Securing a draw or even pulling off a surprise victory would provide a huge morale boost for the players, allowing them to finish the season with renewed spirits and move away from the relegation zone in the current Saudi League season, which has garnered global attention.
