The absence of Al-Khaleej's star midfielder, Murad Hawsawi, from the squad called up for the upcoming match against Al-Ettifaq has sparked widespread controversy in Saudi sports circles, especially given the timing of this absence with the frequent reports about his imminent transfer to Al-Hilal during the current winter transfer window.
The real reason for his absence: injury, not negotiations
Despite participating in the team's group training session this evening, Al-Khaleej's coaching staff decided to exclude Hawsawi from the final squad that will face Al-Ettifaq tomorrow in the Saudi Professional League. Official sources within the club confirmed that the decision was purely technical and medical, and unrelated to the ongoing transfer negotiations.
The main reason for his exclusion is the player's incomplete physical readiness, resulting from an injury he sustained while representing his national team in the recent Arab Cup. The medical staff prefers not to risk the player in a high-tempo match like the Eastern Province derby, indicating that his recovery plan relies on a gradual increase in training loads following a thorough assessment of his medical condition to ensure the injury does not recur.
Al-Hilal negotiations and the winter transfer window
This absence comes at a highly sensitive time, as reliable press reports indicate that Al-Hilal is close to finalizing the signing of Murad Hawsawi. The club is looking to bolster its midfield with top-tier local options during the current winter transfer window to continue competing for all domestic and continental titles. This timing has led fans to speculate about a connection between the absence and the completion of the deal, a connection denied by Al-Khaleej's coaching staff, who emphasized that the focus was on the player's medical condition.
The importance of confronting the Gulf and the agreement
Tomorrow's match holds special significance, not only because it's a derby between two teams from the Eastern Province, but also because both teams desperately need points in the Roshan League standings. The absence of Housawi is a major blow to Al-Dana's plans, given his pivotal role in linking the lines and controlling the tempo of the game. Al-Khaleej fans are hoping for his swift return to action in upcoming matches, whether he remains with the team or before his potential departure, so he can make a positive impact on the club's season.
