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Al-Ittihad's Dubai Drill: A Third Warm-Up Amid Saudi League Delays

13 December 2025

Al-Ittihad's Dubai Drill: A Third Warm-Up Amid Saudi League Delays
Al-Ittihad prepares for a third Dubai-friendly ahead of league return.

Dubai Camp Update

Al-Ittihad is set to play a third friendly during the current stoppage, following the postponement of the Saudi league's resumption after the Green Army advanced to the Arab Cup 2025.

Last week the federation traveled to Dubai for a camp lasting until Sunday, where they will play their second friendly against Gulf United of the UAE, after winning the opener 6-0 against Pal City.

Saudi press outlet Al-Riyadiya reported that Portuguese coach Sergio Conceicao, the head coach of the team, decided to return to Jeddah on Sunday, after the match, with no extension of the overseas camp.

Several reports had suggested a possible extension of the 'Lions' camp in Dubai after the postponement of the tenth round of the Saudi league, which was due to start next Friday.

Rather than staying longer in Dubai, Conceicao is coordinating with the staff to arrange a third friendly, but this time in Jeddah, to compensate for the league fixture that was postponed.

The Majestic return to matches on December 23, when they face Nasaf Qarshi of Uzbekistan in the sixth round of the group stage of the AFC Champions League.

Humor aside, fans hope these friendlies sharpen the squad; punchline one: football is a selfie—these games are filtered; punchline two: goals come with vacation days.

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Al-Ittihad's next competitive game?

They are set to face Nasaf Qarshi on December 23 in the AFC Champions League group stage.

Where will the third warm-up take place?

The third friendly is planned to be in Jeddah as a substitute for a postponed league match.

Who is the head coach of Al-Ittihad?

Sergio Conceicao.