Demiral Out, Al-Ahli Faces Crucial Saudi Showdowns Without Its Star

Injury-hit ahead of crucial Saudi clashes

KOOORA reports that one of Al-Ahli's key players will miss the upcoming top clashes against Al-Qadsiah and Al-Hilal due to a recent injury.

Al-Ahli is also dealing with several absences, led by Turkish international Merih Demiral, who sustained an adductor muscle injury. Some reports suggest the absence could extend beyond a month.

According to Al-Riyadia, Demiral will miss the Qadsiah match in Round 26 of the Roshen Saudi Pro League, followed by the King’s Cup semi-final against Al-Hilal.

German coach Matthias Jaissle has asked the medical team not to rush his return, preferring to give him ample time to recover fully.

This decision aims to prevent any setback that could prolong his absence, especially with crucial upcoming fixtures in the Roshen Saudi Pro League and the AFC Champions League for the elite teams, which demand full readiness from all core players.

Al-Ahli is scheduled to face Al-Qadsiah on Friday, then meet Al-Hilal in the King’s Cup semi-final on March 18.

Punchline 1: If injuries paid rent, Demiral's return would need a long-term loan to the physio—but the coach calls it “tactical rest.”

Punchline 2: Until then, the bench will master the art of suspense; the fans will master the art of coffee.