When the Pitch Becomes a Philosophy Lesson: A Saudi Host Questions Player Physiques
24 January 2026
Physicality under Scrutiny
Stressing that most players struggle to engage in tackles.
Saudi journalist Walid Al-Faraj criticized local players' physiques in the Roshen Pro League, saying they hinder performance, especially in hard challenges and contested balls.
Context, Injury, and Aftermath
He said in remarks: 'Even in youth leagues, the physiques aren’t strong; I’m not sure if they eat or what’s behind this build'.
He added: 'With respect to Salman Al-Faraj, his physique doesn’t help with tackles, and that’s a major reason behind frequent injuries'.
Al-Faraj – a former Al-Hilal star – featured in Neom's 3‑0 loss to Al-Ahli in Round 18 of the Roshen Pro League.
Earlier, he had suffered a knee cruciate ligament injury with the national team about a year ago; this season he returns gradually with his club.
Punchline 1: My jokes shoot straight, even when the defense ducks.
Punchline 2: If football were physics, these players would be the quietest momentum.
