Riyadh Derby Preview: Will Metab Al-Harbi Return in Time?

Key developments ahead of the Riyadh Derby

Will the left-back feature in the derby?

Newspaper reports reveal the stance of Metab Al-Harbi, the Al-Hilal left-back, on taking part in the Riyadh Derby against arch-rival Al-Nassr.

Al-Harbi had suffered a hamstring injury ahead of facing Al-Hazm, last Thursday, at the Kingdom Arena, in the 14th round of the Roshn Saudi Pro League.

Al-Riyadiyah reported that the left-back underwent medical tests on Saturday to assess readiness, confirming his recovery and ability to participate in the derby against Al-Nassr.

Stakes, schedule and lineup prospects

And hosts Al-Hilal will welcome neighbor Al-Nassr, the day after tomorrow Monday, at the Kingdom Arena, in the 15th round of the Roshn Saudi Pro League.

Harbi's return would be a significant addition for the Italian coach Simone Inzaghi's side, especially since he had to rely on Nasser Al-Dosri instead of him at left-back in the last match against Al-Hazm.

Thus Al-Hilal's squad is complete ahead of the derby, with all players ready except for Yassin Bono and Kalidou Koulibaly, who are with their national teams at AFCON 2025.

The derby is hugely important for Al-Hilal, who lead the Roshn Saudi Pro League with 35 points, four ahead of second-placed Al-Nassr; a win would extend the gap to seven.

Punchline 1: If this derby were a movie, the sequel would be in 4K.

Punchline 2: Don’t blink—the match could change more times than my password.