From the Bench to a Breakthrough: Will Al-Aboud Secure a Loan Move to Al-Shabab?

Loan talks on the table

Abdulrahman Al-Aboud, a key figure for Al-Ittihad, welcomed the idea of moving to Al-Shabab during the current winter transfer window, after the Lions had shown interest in the player.

However, Al-Aboud has not been a regular fixture under Portuguese coach Sergio Conceicao, with the manager not relying on him within the team's offensive system.

What it could mean for the clubs

Saudi newspaper Al-Sharq Al-Awsat reported that Al-Aboud gave a preliminary yes to a loan move to Al-Shabab should the two clubs reach an agreement.

According to the paper, Al-Shabab contacted him and presented a footballing plan, hoping to use him as a starter.

In the Saudi Pro League context, recaps of upcoming matches showed Al-Tawon vs Al-Shabab and Al-Khulood vs Al-Ittihad, highlighting the mix of competition and opportunity.

Al-Aboud, 30, has appeared in six league matches this season in the Saudi Pro League, scoring one goal, and is eager to win more minutes to push for a World Cup berth.

Punchline 1: If he’s stuck on the bench any longer, the substitutes might start charging him rent.

Punchline 2: If the loan lands, at least he'll get a real chair on the starting XI—may the goals follow!