Al-Nassr in Rough Patch: Four-Week Absence Hits Key Defender
22 December 2025
Injury Strikes Al-Nassr's Backline
The Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus has been dealt a blow as French defender Mohamed Simakan suffered a muscular injury during today's group training, ruling him out for four weeks.
Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadiya reports that Simakan has a hamstring tear, confirming a four-week absence from the pitch.
This setback narrows the French player's chances of featuring in the Riyadh derby against city rival Al-Hilal, set for January 12 in the 15th round of the Saudi Pro League at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.
He is expected to undergo intensive treatment starting Monday, keeping him from the clash with Al-Zawraa in AFC Champions League 2 and from league fixtures against Al-Okhdood, Ettifaq, Al-Ahli, Al-Qadsiah, and Al-Hilal.
Simakan has appeared for the Red Eagles in 15 matches across all competitions this season, including 8 in the Saudi Pro League, 3 in AFC Champions League 2, 2 in the King's Cup, and 2 in the Saudi Super Cup, scoring two goals and earning one yellow card.
The Riyadh club is preparing for the clash with Al-Zawraa on Wednesday in the AFC Champions League 2 group stage.
And yes, four weeks without him might feel long, but even a hamstring deserves a spa day. Meanwhile, the calendar is winning the race for drama; if football were a sandwich, this injury is the missing slice that makes it complete.
