Frequent absences raise questions
In a surprising move that sparked widespread controversy in Saudi sports circles, Al-Nassr's Portuguese coach, Luis Castro, was absent from the official pre-match press conference ahead of his team's crucial game against Al-Ittihad, marking his second consecutive absence. This repeated absence has fueled speculation about the true reasons behind this decision, especially given the fierce competition in the Saudi Professional League this season.
General context: More than just a match
The matches between Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad are considered among the pinnacles of Saudi football, or what is known as the "Saudi Clasico." These matches transcend the mere pursuit of three points; they are tactical, psychological, and historical battles between two of the Kingdom's biggest clubs. With global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo in Al-Nassr's ranks and Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kanté in Al-Ittihad's, this rivalry has acquired a global dimension, captivating millions worldwide. The pre-match press conferences are typically a crucial platform for coaches to explain their strategies, answer media questions, and instill confidence in their players and fans, making Castro's absence all the more unusual.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
The manager's absence from two consecutive press conferences carries several implications. Locally, it could be interpreted as a protest from the coach or the club's management regarding certain issues, whether related to refereeing, fixture congestion, or even the nature of the questions posed by journalists. It could also be a psychological tactic to relieve pressure on the players and allow them to focus entirely on the tactical preparations for the match. From a media perspective, this absence creates a vacuum that is filled with rumors and speculation, amplifying the noise surrounding the club before a crucial encounter. This uncertainty could negatively impact the morale of some fans who eagerly await hearing from their manager before major matches.
Dori Roshan under the global microscope
This event comes at a time when the Saudi League is experiencing a historic boom and unprecedented international attention. League news is no longer confined to local or regional followers; it has become part of the global sporting agenda. Consequently, every detail, including the media appearances of coaches, is subject to close scrutiny and analysis. Clubs' adherence to international media standards of professionalism has become a necessity, not an option. The absence of a coach of Luis Castro's stature from official speaking engagements is a point that warrants reflection and questions about its impact on the image of the club and the league as a whole during this new phase in its history.
