As part of Al-Ahli Saudi FC's preparations to resume their campaign in the Saudi Professional League, German coach Matthias Jäissle issued a stern and direct warning to three key players: Turkish defender Merih Demiral, full-back Ali Majrashi, and midfielder Enzo Melot. These strict instructions come just hours before their anticipated match against Al-Khaleej, and are part of a meticulous tactical plan aimed at preserving the team's core for the crucial stages ahead.
During recent training sessions, Yassle urged his players to exercise extreme caution and play intelligently to avoid any unnecessary yellow cards that could rule them out of the crucial next match. The German coach fears the specter of suspension due to accumulated yellow cards, as any of the trio receiving a caution in the Al-Khaleej match would automatically rule them out of the 18th-round game against Neom. The coaching staff considers this match of paramount importance given the strength of the opponent and the implications for the league standings.
These directives are particularly important given the fiercely competitive nature of the Saudi League this season. Al-Ahli, currently in third place with 34 points, is neck and neck with second-placed Al-Nassr, separated only by goal difference. This situation places significant pressure on the coaching staff and players to avoid dropping any points while simultaneously maintaining the fitness of key players for crucial matches that could determine the shape of the competition for Asian Champions League qualification spots.
From a technical standpoint, the absence of players of Demiral's caliber in central defense, or Majrashi and Milot, is a significant blow to Yasle's plans, especially since the team relies heavily on the defensive stability and connection between the lines that these players provide. Managing yellow and red cards is an integral part of a coach's strategy in long leagues, requiring a delicate balance between playing aggressively to secure victories and maintaining tactical discipline to avoid disciplinary action.
As for the schedule, Al-Ahli will host Al-Khaleej at 8:30 PM next Tuesday in the 17th round of matches, in a game expected to draw a large crowd to support the home side. Immediately following this match, the team will begin preparations for their trip to face Neom the following Saturday at the same time in the 18th round, in a busy week of football that demands the highest levels of focus and physical and mental readiness.
