Saudi football fans and Al-Hilal supporters were dealt a major blow after it was confirmed that Salem Al-Dawsari , the star player of both the club and the national team, will be sidelined for up to two weeks. This forced absence comes as a result of a worrying knee tendon injury, posing new challenges for Al-Hilal's coaching staff and the Saudi national team in their current commitments.
Matches that Tornado will miss
Based on medical reports, it has been definitively confirmed that the international star will miss two crucial matches for Al-Hilal in the Saudi Professional League. The team will be without their captain for the first match against Al-Taawoun, scheduled for April 4th as part of the 27th round. He will also be absent for the 28th round when Al-Hilal faces Al-Kholoud on Tuesday, April 7th. Doubts remain regarding his fitness and his final availability for the match against Al-Khaleej on April 11th in the 29th round, which will depend on his response to the treatment program.
A remarkable journey and exceptional statistics this season
Salem Al-Dawsari, 34, is considered one of the greatest living legends in the history of Saudi football and Al-Hilal. Throughout his career, he has contributed to numerous domestic and continental titles, becoming an indispensable pillar of the team. This season, Al-Dawsari has continued to deliver impressive performances, appearing in 27 matches across all competitions for Al-Hilal, scoring 8 crucial goals and providing 10 assists for his teammates, reflecting his immense talent and direct impact on the team's attacking prowess.
Official exclusion from the Green camp
Internationally, this absence cast a shadow over the Saudi national team. French coach Hervé Renard decided to exclude the player from the "Green Falcons'" training camp currently being held in Jeddah. This decisive decision was based on a detailed medical report submitted by Al-Hilal's medical staff, which included the results of an MRI scan performed on the player's injured knee. Upon Al-Dawsari's arrival at the camp on Sunday evening, the national team's medical staff conducted thorough clinical examinations and reviewed the accompanying reports, confirming the player's urgent need for an intensive treatment and rehabilitation program, thus necessitating his rest and exclusion due to his lack of fitness.
The impact of Salem Al-Dawsari's absence on Al-Hilal and the national team
The absence of Salem Al-Dawsari not merely a loss of a player; it impacts the entire tactical system. Domestically, his absence is a significant blow to Al-Hilal, who are striving to secure the Saudi Professional League title, as Al-Dawsari is considered their key player and a game-changer in crucial matches. Regionally and internationally, the Saudi national team misses its on-field leader and a player with extensive experience in international competitions. This situation demands that coaches find quick tactical alternatives capable of filling this significant void, especially as the competitions enter their decisive stages where dropping any points is unacceptable.
