Derby Dilemma: Can Galino Rescue Al-Ahli’s Struggling Attack?

Brazilian winger Galino, a star for Al-Ahli, stunned fans ahead of the derby against rivals Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League.

Al-Ahli vs Al-Ittihad is slated for Saturday at the Al-Enma Stadium in Jeddah, in round eight of the league. In less than 48 hours before the match, sources say Galino's participation is not yet confirmed.

The Brazilian winger isn’t expected to play the full 90 minutes due to his recent return from a long injury layoff, and head coach Matthias Jaissle will decide whether he starts or comes off the bench after today’s final training session on Friday.

Galino had helped Al-Ahli beat Al-Sadd 2-1 in the AFC Champions League earlier in the week, setting up the second goal with a magical touch, which had raised hopes among fans that he could make the difference in the derby.

Injury complication

Galino had sustained an injury ahead of the match against Nasaf Qarshi in September, which kept him out for a long spell. The club decided to part ways with the entire medical staff after misdiagnosis and a prolonged absence that worsened his condition.

Reports noted that the injury was not diagnosed properly for over a month, straining relations between the player, the coaching staff, and management, leading to an urgent overhaul of the medical team.

Since the setback against Nasaf, Al-Ahli's attacking performance has clearly suffered, with Galino previously being one of the key creators in big games.

Galino’s journey with Al-Ahli

Galino joined Al-Ahli in January 2025 from Porto in a deal worth about €50 million, signing a contract through June 2028. So far this season he has played 7 matches for 381 minutes with no goals, registering one assist in a win over Al-Sadd, which fans called the uncompleted deal.

During his time with Al-Ahli, he has appeared in 25 matches, scoring 7 goals and providing 6 assists, before recurring injuries slowed his progress this season.

Clear attacking weakness

His absence has been felt as Al-Ahli struggles for goals in the Saudi Pro League. Since the start of the season, the team has rarely scored more than two in a match, with two notable exceptions: a 3-3 draw with Al-Hilal and a 2-0 win over Al-Hazem. In seven league games, Al-Ahli has tallied 9 goals and conceded 5, leaving them fifth with 13 points, five behind leaders Al-Nasr who have a game in hand.

Moves to turn things around

To address the dip, coach Jaissle has asked sporting director Rui Pedro to strengthen the frontline in the next winter window. He presented a full technical report highlighting the need for more goal threat, and the director approved studying several forward options for the window opening on January 5 through February 2.

With Galino's gradual return, fans hope the team can regain its attacking balance in upcoming matches and that the Brazilian can contribute in the final third after a long absence.

Punchline: If injuries were a league, Galino would be MVP of the injured list, and somehow still the most expensive bench warmer.

Punchline: Jaissle’s rotation might read like a thrill ride, but at least the club’s medical bills stay in business for the drama.