Mansour Al-Afaleq's statement stirs up Al-Qadisiyah fans and calls for the formation of a new board
In a notable development within Saudi Arabian football circles in the Eastern Province, a statement by Al-Fateh club president, Engineer Mansour Al-Afaleq, sparked widespread controversy following his team's match against Al-Qadisiyah in the 21st round of the Saudi Professional League. This statement did not go unnoticed; rather, it coincided with strategic administrative moves by Al-Qadisiyah's management to bolster their fan base.
Al-Quds administrative move to strengthen presence
Informed sources told Okaz newspaper that the management of Al-Qadisiyah Club has begun implementing an ambitious organizational plan aimed at expanding fan support for the team. This step involves forming a fan council covering several regions of the Kingdom, with a particular focus on Al-Ahsa Governorate. This initiative is part of a strategy developed by the fan council, which was appointed approximately three months ago, to ensure effective support for Al-Qadisiyah in both home and away matches.
The new council's organizational structure comprises prominent figures from the Al-Qadsia supporters' movement. It is headed by Abdullah Al-Yahya (Chairman of the Al-Qadsia Supporters' Council), and includes Khalid Al-Balushi as head of fan relations, Asaad Al-Saad as public relations officer, Waleed Hazazi as leader of the supporters' movement, and Faisal Masrahi as supervisor of the supporters' movement. This structure reflects the administration's desire to institutionalize fan activities to ensure their sustainability.
Al-Afaalq's statement angers Al-Qadsia fans
On the other hand, Mansour Al-Afaleq's post-match comments at Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam sparked outrage among Al-Qadisiyah supporters. Al-Afaleq had mentioned bringing in fans from Al-Ahsa to support Al-Qadisiyah in Dammam, a statement some interpreted as belittling the club's home advantage. He further asserted that his own club, Al-Fateh, could fill its stadium without any external support, a clear challenge reflecting the intense rivalry between Eastern Province clubs.
The context of competition and the importance of public attendance
These events gain significance from the broader context of the Saudi Professional League (SPL), which is undergoing a historic transformation and placing a strong emphasis on fan attendance as part of its club support strategy. The Eastern Province, home to established clubs like Al-Qadisiyah, Al-Fateh, and Al-Ettifaq, is a stage for a fierce fan rivalry that rivals the on-field competition.
Observers believe that Al-Qadisiyah's move to establish fan councils in areas like Al-Ahsa is a smart step to capitalize on the high population density and football passion in those regions. This is a legitimate right for clubs to increase their revenue and enhance their presence. Conversely, Al-Afaleq's statements reflect Al-Fateh's management's commitment to maintaining its independent fan identity in Al-Ahsa Governorate, suggesting upcoming seasons that will witness a fierce competition not only for points but also for winning the loyalty of fans in the Eastern Province.
