Video Sparks a War of Words: Lahyani Dares Jesus to Explain Al-Nassr’s Struggles
17 January 2026
Background and Controversy
Former Al-Wahda star Sultan Lahyani lashes out at Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, who manages Al-Nassr, for his latest comments targeting archrival Al-Hilal and for accusing him of contradiction while trying to justify his own failures.
Jesus had claimed in a press conference that Al-Hilal possesses a political clout that distinguishes him from Al-Nassr, arguing that he plays matches off the field as well as on it.
Speaking on the program Dawri Ghair, Lahyani called the remark inappropriate and contradictory, saying that any coach who talks about issues off the pitch is merely trying to mask failure.
He asked Jesus: Are these excuses for Al-Nassr's stumbles? Were there tactical mistakes you should have addressed rather than blaming others?
He added: You say you won't talk about refereeing, yet you did. You cannot be a coach and ignore flaws, nor absolve your players and fans with claims of refereeing errors as the root cause.
Season Form and Aftermath
Al-Nassr had just exited the King’s Cup at the hands of Al-Ittihad, but the league run had looked healthy with a span of ten consecutive victories. It later stalled, producing four disappointing results in a row – one draw and three defeats – leaving the team searching for answers as the title race continued in the Saudi Pro League.
The discussion around Jesus’ defensive approach was highlighted as a factor behind early wobbling, with a reminder of the Cup exit still fresh in the memory of fans and players alike.
In a broader frame, the Saudi Pro League narrative encompassed a tense clash between Al-Nassr and Al-Shabab, framed within a debate about leadership, accountability, and the fine line between self-belief and excuses.
Punchline 1: If football were a courtroom, Jesus would be asking for more time to prep his excuses.
Punchline 2: And Lahyani would be the judge who finally decides the score—preferably one that keeps the drama on the pitch and off the bench.
