Video: Ex-Saudi Star Says Youssef En-Nesyri Will Struggle at Al-Ittihad

Overview

Abdullatif Atif, a former Saudi football star, predicted that Moroccan striker Youssef En-Nesyri would struggle at Al-Ittihad after his official signing.

En-Nesyri started as a starter on Friday in a 0-2 defeat to Al-Nassr at Al-Nassr Park, in the 21st round of the Saudi Pro League, just days after joining the club.

Atif questioned the basis of his selection, suggesting potential friction between the sporting director and the coach that could complicate relations with the home fans.

He argued that a player must fit the team ideas and style, and that En-Nesyri might have a hard time adapting.

He added that En-Nesyri, known for aerial play and crosses in La Liga, did not display those elements against Al-Nassr, and the current Ittihad wingers may not excel with such deliveries.

According to SofaScore, En-Nesyri scored 6.3 out of 10 in the clash, the second lowest of the match. He did not have a shot, his pass accuracy was 67 percent, he made no dribbles, and he lost 9 duels overall.

Two light notes to end: If crosses paid bills, En-Nesyri would be late with the rent. And if timing is everything, maybe the bench will supply the jokes while the field supplies the goals.

Punchline 1: If crosses paid rent, En-Nesyri would be in arrears.

Punchline 2: In football as in humor, timing is everything; his shots might arrive next season.