In a surprising development that casts a shadow over Al-Ittihad's preparations for the most important match of the season, the club's management officially announced the departure of Albanian left-back Mario Mitai from Saudi Arabia to his home country. This news comes just days before the highly anticipated clash against arch-rivals Al-Hilal, scheduled for next Saturday as part of the Saudi Professional League's top-of-the-table encounter.
Details of the official statement from Al-Ittihad Club
The Al-Ittihad Club Media Center issued an official statement via its social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), explaining the reasons for this sudden absence. The statement read: "The club's board of directors extends its deepest condolences and sincere sympathies to first-team player Mario Mitaë on the passing of his grandmother." The administration confirmed that the player had received prior permission from the technical and administrative staff to leave immediately to be with his family during this difficult time.
The timing of the departure and its impact on El Clásico
Metai left Saudi Arabia immediately after his participation with the team in the match between Al-Ittihad and Qatari side Al-Sadd, which took place on Tuesday as part of the AFC Champions League. The timing of his departure is a major concern for Al-Ittihad fans, as the club has not specified a precise date for the player's return, leaving his participation in the "Saudi Clasico" against Al-Hilal shrouded in uncertainty. Matches between Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal are historically significant and fiercely competitive, with each team striving to assert its dominance. Therefore, the absence of any key player could disrupt the coach's tactical plans.
Mario Mitaï's numbers and his artistic influence
Mario Mitai is a key player for Al-Ittihad this season, heavily relied upon by the coaching staff on the left flank. According to official statistics, the Albanian star has featured in 23 matches for Al-Ittihad across various domestic and continental competitions this season. His contributions extend beyond defense, as he has also scored a goal and provided two assists, making him a valuable asset in both initiating attacks and launching quick counter-attacks.
Available alternatives and compensation scenarios
If Metayi's absence from Saturday's match is confirmed, Al-Ittihad's coaching staff will face a tactical challenge in finding a suitable replacement to fill the left-back position, especially against a team with such a potent attack as Al-Hilal. Fans are anxiously awaiting news in the coming hours to see if the player will join the team or if family circumstances will prevent him from participating in one of the league's most important matches.
