The technical staff of Al-Ahli Saudi Club, led by German coach Matthias Jäissle, announced the team’s roster that will face Al-Riyadh Club in the twenty-fourth round of the Saudi Professional League. The roster witnessed a major surprise, which was the exclusion of Algerian star Riyad Mahrez, along with the young French player Enzo Meo.
According to sources close to the club, coach Yassla's decision was aimed at resting Riyad Mahrez and preparing him for the upcoming crucial matches, given the team's congested fixture schedule at this critical stage of the season. Mahrez is a key player for Al-Ahli, as the team relies heavily on him for playmaking and scoring goals, making his absence a significant blow to the team's tactical plans.
Context of the decision and the importance of the player
This decision comes at a time when the Saudi Professional League is experiencing unprecedented competitiveness, following the arrival of a host of international football stars last summer. One of the most prominent of these signings was Riyad Mahrez, who moved from Manchester City, the English club that won a historic European treble, to Jeddah. Since his arrival, Mahrez has proven his high technical ability, contributing to Al-Ahli's string of positive results that have placed them high up the league table, strongly competing for a spot in the AFC Champions League.
The impact of the absence on the Riyadh match
Al-Ahli will visit Al-Riyadh on Thursday evening, aiming for a victory and all three points to keep the pressure on the league leaders. Al-Ahli currently sits high up the table, while Al-Riyadh is struggling in mid-table, just clear of the relegation zone. Despite the apparent differences in quality on paper, the absence of a player of Riyad Mahrez's caliber could give the home side an opportunity to pull off an upset. Coach Jacek will rely on other attacking options, such as Brazilian Roberto Firmino and Frenchman Allan Saint-Maximin, to fill the void left by the Algerian star.
A look at the team's future
The decision to rest Mahrez reflects the German coach's strategic vision, as he understands that the season is long and demanding, and that maintaining his stars' physical and mental readiness is key to long-term success. Competition in the Roshan League is no longer solely about technical skill; it now requires meticulous management of physical exertion to avoid fatigue and injuries. Al Ahly fans will be closely monitoring the team's performance in the absence of their captain, hoping that the substitutes will rise to the occasion and lead the team to another victory that strengthens their position among the top contenders.
