Optimism is growing within Al-Hilal regarding the possibility of their French international star, Theo Hernandez, being fit for the highly anticipated clash against arch-rivals Al-Ittihad in the 23rd round of the Saudi Professional League. This development would provide a significant morale and tactical boost for the league leaders before one of the most crucial and challenging junctures in their title defense.
According to sources close to Al-Midan Al-Riyadi, the French left-back has entered the final stages of his rehabilitation program to recover from the muscle injury that sidelined him recently. The sources confirmed that initial indications regarding the player's condition are very positive, and he is scheduled to undergo a final medical test in the coming hours to determine his physical and technical readiness to participate in El Clásico. It is highly likely that he will be among the coach's options for the match.
General context: The Saudi football classic
The Al-Hilal vs. Al-Ittihad match is more than just a league game; it's the quintessential "Saudi Arabian football classic," a clash steeped in a long history of intense rivalry between two of the biggest names in Saudi and Asian sports. These matches always draw massive crowds and create a fervent atmosphere, and their outcome is often decisive in determining the league title race. This season, the match takes on added significance, as Al-Hilal aims to solidify its lead and widen the gap, while Al-Ittihad seeks to thwart its direct rival and close the gap to keep its title hopes alive.
The importance of Hernandez's return and its expected impact
The return of Theo Hernandez is a crucial strategic factor for Al-Hilal. The French player not only performs his defensive duties with high efficiency, but he is also a lethal attacking weapon on the left flank thanks to his exceptional speed, penetrating ability, and precise crosses that pose a constant threat to opposing defenses. His absence in the recent period affected the balance between defense and attack within the team, and his return will provide the coach with additional tactical solutions and significantly increase the team's attacking power. On a regional and international level, the participation of world-class stars like Hernandez in such major matches raises the technical and marketing value of the Roshan League, attracting the attention of fans worldwide to witness a world-class football spectacle on Saudi soil.
