January recall reshapes Ittihad's plans
Al-Ittihad has officially recalled two Riyadh-based players, Farha Al-Shamrani and Talal Haji, ending their loan spell during the ongoing winter transfer window.
Coach Conceicao's move and upcoming fixtures
The club's official account on X shared a photo of the duo and commented, "Welcome back to both of you".
The decision to terminate the loans came at the request of Portuguese coach Sergio Conceicao, who said he needed them back in January.
The Portuguese manager wants to strengthen the team's center forward and midfield with domestic players.
Ittihad's management exercised a recall clause in the players' contracts, allowing them to rejoin during the winter window if the club wished.
Talal Haji played 187 minutes across five league appearances this season, while Farha Al-Shamrani logged 12 minutes in a single King Cup match.
Al-Ittihad prepare to face Al-Kholoud in Week 14 of the Saudi Pro League, at the Al-Inma Stadium.
The team sits sixth in the Saudi Pro League standings with 23 points after 12 rounds.
Bottom line: recalls shake up January plans, and fans hope these returns sharpen the squad—because in football, two heads beat one loan; and yes, even the gaffer could use a vacation.
