Saudi media reports have revealed a major surprise regarding the future of international striker Saleh Al-Shehri with Al-Ittihad Club, as the player has expressed his explicit desire to leave the club during the upcoming winter transfer window. This decision stems from his limited playing time and the difficulty of securing a place in the starting lineup due to fierce competition in the attacking positions.
According to the "Thamania" network, Saleh Al-Shehri has submitted a formal request to the club's management and coaching staff to allow him to leave, either on loan or permanently, during the upcoming winter transfer window. The main reason behind this request is the player's strong desire to get sufficient playing time to ensure he is fully fit and ready, something he currently lacks at Al-Ittihad.
Karim Benzema's influence and the dominance of foreign players
Saleh Al-Shehri faces a significant challenge in the presence of French star Karim Benzema, whom the coaching staff relies on as their first and foremost striker in all domestic and continental competitions. This complete dependence on Benzema has severely limited Al-Shehri's playing time, bringing to mind his previous experience with Al-Hilal, where he struggled to secure a place in the team's attack due to the presence of other top-tier foreign strikers.
The World Cup dream and the future of the Green Falcons
Al-Shehri's request is not merely a personal desire to play; it has a significant national dimension related to the future of the Saudi national team. He has his sights set on representing the "Green Falcons" at the 2026 World Cup finals, scheduled to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The player is well aware that remaining on the bench will diminish his chances of being included in the international squad, especially since national team coaches primarily rely on players who are in better form and have more playing time with their clubs.
Al-Shehri is considered a key attacking player for Saudi Arabia, especially after his outstanding performance at the 2022 Qatar World Cup and his historic goal against Argentina. Therefore, his move to a club that offers him regular playing time is a strategic step to maintain his place in the national team.
Youth... the closest destination
In a related development, Al-Shabab has emerged as the frontrunner to secure the services of the international striker. Sources indicate that the club is open to the idea of loaning Al-Shehri until the end of the current season, as they seek to bolster their attack with an experienced and prolific local striker. This makes the deal beneficial for all parties involved: Al-Ittihad by reducing their bench depth, Al-Shabab by strengthening their squad, and the player by regaining his form on the pitch.
