The technical staff of the first football team of Al-Ahli Saudi Club, led by German coach Matthias Jäissle, breathed a sigh of relief after confirming the readiness of Turkish international defender Merih Demiral to participate in official matches, starting with the match against Al-Hazm scheduled for today, Thursday, as part of the competitions of the twenty-first round of the Roshan Professional League.
The Turkish defensive rock had been absent from the field and participation with “Al-Raed” for a period of up to three weeks, as a result of the injury he suffered during the course of his team’s match against Al-Khaleej in the seventeenth round of the league, which required him to undergo an intensive treatment and rehabilitation program throughout the past period to ensure his return in the best condition.
The recent group training sessions of Al-Ahly Club witnessed Demiral’s active participation, as he showed complete technical and physical readiness, thus announcing himself as a strong and available option for coach Yasle to rely on in the starting lineup or as a strategic option on the bench in tomorrow’s anticipated match.
The importance of Demiral's return to Al Ahly's defense
Merih Demiral's return is of paramount importance to Al-Ahli at this crucial juncture in the season. Arriving from a wealth of experience in Serie A with top clubs like Juventus and Atalanta, Demiral is considered a cornerstone of the club's sporting project, crucial for bolstering their defense. His fighting spirit, ball-winning ability, and capacity to initiate attacks from the back are all qualities the team has sorely missed during his absence.
Competition context of the Roshan League
This return comes at a time of intense competition in the Saudi Professional League, which has garnered global attention thanks to major international transfers. Al-Ahli, making a strong comeback to the top tier, aims to solidify its place in the top four and secure a spot in next season's Asian Champions League. Therefore, a full squad, particularly in defense, is crucial for maintaining consistent results and avoiding dropping points against relegation-threatened teams like Al-Hazm.
The impact of absences and injuries on major teams
It is well known in modern football that squad depth is a coach's most important weapon for long-term competition. Al-Ahli has suffered from inconsistent defensive performances in the past due to absences, and therefore, the return of a player of Demiral's caliber and experience gives coach Yasle greater tactical flexibility and provides Al-Ahli fans with reassurance and confidence before entering the final and crucial stages of the league.
