Blow for Al-Ittihad: Young Star Muath Faqih Sidelined for Four Weeks Ahead of Key Clashes

Injury Update and Impact on the Squad

Al-Ittihad’s 23-year-old Muath Faqih has been ruled out for four weeks due to a foot joint injury, according to Saudi press reports. The setback comes after medical tests confirmed the problem sustained in the recent match against Al-Fayha, sidelining him during a period packed with important fixtures.

Recovery Plan and Upcoming Fixtures

Faqih will begin a rehabilitation program under the club’s medical staff, with a return to full training expected only once he regains full fitness. Last season he made 10 appearances for the team—8 in the Saudi Pro League and 2 in the King’s Cup, totaling 431 minutes and providing one assist.

Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad are negotiating the futures of other players. Abdulrahman Al-Abood’s contract extension is a major talking point, with discussions aimed at reaching an agreement before the January window, including personal terms and financial specifics.

On the international front, Houssam Awar is also in the spotlight, as a medical assessment will determine his availability for the AFC Champions League clash against the Iraqi Police and other upcoming fixtures. Coach Sérgio Conceição views Awar as a key piece, especially given the congested schedule ahead.

The squad is set to travel to Baghdad by plane for the ACL group-stage match and will hold a training session on the venue as part of acclimatization plans.

Following the Iraq trip, Al-Ittihad face a fiery sequence: a league clash with Al-Hilal, and then a King’s Cup tie with Al-Nassr—a pair of tests that will sharpen the team after the recent standout results. Veteran pundits have offered mixed opinions on the club’s title chances, with some suggesting theAbsence of key players may be a hurdle to overcome.

In a media discussion, Ahmed Hossam “Mido” of former Egyptian fame commented that Al-Ittihad’s title bid faces significant obstacles, noting the team’s erratic rhythm in the most recent draw with Al-Fayha. The implication is that maintaining momentum will require sharper tactical discipline under Conceição, even as the schedule becomes heavy.

Punchline time: If schedules came with a manual, this season would still be under warranty—because apparently, Al-Ittihad’s calendar is the one thing that never takes a break. Punchline 2: The only thing sharper than Conceição’s tactics might be the club’s calendar—it’s loaded until January, and we’ll see if it shoots straight then.