Shabab's Big Hurdle: Can They Oust the Coach?
2 December 2025
Background
Shabab’s management is at a crossroads as discussions about Spanish head coach Emmanuel Algwasil stall for the time being.
Algwasil has led the team since the start of the season, but the results under his command have fallen short of expectations.
The Spaniard’s side was handed a heavy 4-1 defeat by Al Ittihad in the King Cup, exiting in the quarterfinals and raising concerns about league form as well.
Cup setback and contract considerations
The Saudi newspaper Okaz reports that Algwasil’s contract includes a buyout clause of 40 million riyals, meaning any departure would come with a hefty price tag.
Should Shabab decide to part ways, they would be obliged to pay the full amount to the coach.
Current standing and outlook
Officials had previously denied any intention to sack the coach, but a cup exit could complicate the club’s position, especially since they are far from the top spots in the league.
Shabab currently sit 13th with 8 points, while Al Ahli occupy 4th with 19 points, highlighting the gulf in form and the urgency of a potential decision.
If they choose change, the club must weigh the cost against potential gains in performance and confidence. And yes, sometimes in football, even the bench needs a bigger chair—and perhaps a better joke writer for the ride.
Punchline 1: If coaching were a sniper shot, this season would be a miss—but the club keeps paying the price for the attempt. Punchline 2: In this league, patience may be a virtue, but a trophy still needs a head coach who can deliver it before the last whistle ends the debate.
