Rotation Reality Check: Abdulghani Blasts Al Ahli Stars After Shock Loss to Sharjah

Rotation Under Fire as Abdulghani Targets Al Ahli Stars

Hussein Abdulghani, a legend of Al Ahli Jeddah, launched a fierce critique at the club’s stars after a surprising loss in the AFC Champions League Elite. Al Ahli fell 0-1 at home to Sharjah in the fifth round of the Elite group stage, a setback that rattled a team hoping to shine in Asia and in domestic cups.

The night also spotlighted the team’s rotation policy under German coach Matthias Jaissle, which Abdulghani questioned as not well suited to the match context.

Abdulghani spoke on television, saying the defeat was not expected and that even the most optimistic observers had predicted at least a draw. Losing in Jeddah was a surprise, but he added that misfortune can sometimes serve a learning purpose for the team.

He argued that a loss can push the coach to reexamine tactics and beliefs, while the players also gain motivation to improve. Abdulghani pointed to opportunities given to certain players that in his view did not maximize the squad’s potential and suggested giving chances to younger players with long term benefits for the club.

He also noted that the coach and the players shared responsibility for the result but stressed the need to move on and prepare for the upcoming clash with Al Qadisah in the King Cup quarterfinal, a match that follows a league win two days earlier.

Rotation and future upheaval were also on the table when the topic shifted to the striker Ivan Tony. Abdulghani indicated a winter exit could be possible to help the national team pursue the 2026 World Cup. He added that contract respect remains important and that players must give 100 percent regardless of national team ambitions, but that club interests should come first for the time being.

On Saleh Abu Al-Shamat, Abdulghani encouraged the youngster to stay focused and consistent, praising the talent he has shown in recent periods and urging him to keep delivering at a high level for both the club and the national team.

Looking ahead, the club appears to face a difficult period with tests on multiple fronts, including defending the title in the Elite league and facing potential tough fixtures in Asia and in the domestic competitions. The team needs a clear plan to tighten both defense and attack and to remain mentally strong under pressure from fans and media as well as coach Jaissle's rotation choices.

There is a sense that the coming weeks will be crucial for the team and for the players to prove their value and find consistency ahead of the next rounds.

Two punchlines: rotation can feel like a rollercoaster ride, but at least you know when you’re upside down. Punchline 2: if rotation were a sport, Jaissle would win the league for most appearances without scoring a goal.