Mendy Dares the Odds: Al Ahli's Guardian Returns for a Neom Clash
23 January 2026
Return
Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy of Al Ahli Jeddah defied his German coach Matthias Jaissle's expectations about returning to action today.
AFCON
Mendy had been sidelined for Al Ahli's most recent matches due to Senegal's participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, where the team helped lift the trophy over Morocco, and sparked fresh speculation.
He was granted a short extra break to celebrate the triumph and rest after the tournament, yet he stunned everyone by flying back to Jeddah on Friday morning.
Rapid Return
He decided to return to training immediately to support his team in forthcoming fixtures, a move that surprised everyone, including the coach.
Indeed, Mendy trained this afternoon and traveled with Al Ahli to Tabuk, gearing up for Neom on Saturday in Round 18 of the Saudi Pro League.
This season he has appeared in 18 matches across competitions, conceding 20 goals and keeping seven clean sheets. And yes, even the net looked surprised.
Punchlines
Punchline 1: Even the ball waved hello. Punchline 2: If confidence had a keeper, it would be Mendy.
