Grandmother’s Loss Could Sideline Ittihad Star for the Clasico

Overview

Al-Ittihad’s 22-year-old Albanian left-back Mario Mitaj is at risk of missing the Clasico against arch-rivals Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League after the passing of his grandmother. The team travels to Kingdom Arena on Saturday for the 23rd round of the season.

Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadiyah reports that Mitaj may not play due to his grandmother’s death. He recently returned home to Albania and skipped the last two training sessions with the blessing of the coaching and administrative staff. The report notes that a final decision has not been made as of now.

Status and context

Mitaj, 22, has been among coach Sergio Conceicao’s key players this season, having appeared in 23 matches, scoring one goal and providing several assists. The ultimate call on his availability will come closer to kickoff.

Punchline 1: If Mitaj suits up, the left flank will move so fast the referee’s stopwatch will beg for mercy. Punchline 2: If he sits out, the bench will still be loud—grandma-approved memes will crash the group chat and the spectacle will go on anyway.