Behind the scenes of Noureddine Ben Zekri's departure from Al-Shabab and offers from Riyadh clubs
The future of Noureddine Ben Zekri after the youth's survival
The Saudi sports scene is abuzz with anticipation regarding the future of Algerian coach Noureddine Benzekri, as the veteran manager is currently considering several lucrative coaching offers from Riyadh-based clubs competing in the Saudi Professional League. This comes after the conclusion of his exciting and challenging stint with Al-Shabab. Benzekri has requested that interested clubs grant him ample time to thoroughly assess their needs and review the technical proposals presented to him. His aim is to carefully consider his options and develop a comprehensive and early-stage strategy for the preseason preparations of the team he will ultimately lead in the upcoming season.
Reasons for the dispute between Ben Zekri and the youth management
Despite his success in keeping the team in the top division, sources close to the club revealed to Okaz newspaper that Ben Zekri expressed his deep dissatisfaction with the way Al-Shabab's management treated him. The coach was surprised to learn that the management had begun secret negotiations with a new coach even before the team's official league matches had concluded. Adding to his displeasure was the management's reaching a final agreement with a Serbian coach, which Ben Zekri considered a belittling of his achievement in securing the team's survival in the top flight and preventing the club's relegation.
Administrative crises and conflicts within the dressing room
Ben Zekri's journey with Al-Shabab was far from smooth sailing. From the outset, he suffered from a near-total lack of support from the club's management. This coincided with a growing number of complaints from the team's stars, particularly foreign players like Yannick Carrasco, due to delayed payments and unpaid salaries. This administrative absence and the financial crisis cast a dark shadow over the players' relationships, leading to persistent and heated disagreements between stars Abderrazak Hamdallah and Carrasco. These disputes escalated into clashes in the locker room, the most recent being the violent altercation between Dutch defender Wesley Hoedt and Swiss midfielder Vincent Serrowe following Al-Shabab's loss to Al-Najma, a match in which Ben Zekri was absent from the team's training ground.
Historical context and the importance of young players remaining in the Roshan League
Historically, Al-Shabab is one of the oldest and most prestigious clubs in Saudi Arabia and a major force in the capital, Riyadh, boasting a rich history of domestic and continental championships. Therefore, the mere prospect of relegation came as a major shock to Saudi football fans in general. In the context of the Saudi Professional League, which is experiencing unprecedented global growth and attracting some of the world's top football stars, relegation to the First Division is considered a devastating blow to any sporting project, both financially and in terms of fan support.
Impact of the event locally and regionally
Locally, Al-Shabab's survival has helped maintain the competitive edge of Riyadh's derbies and ensured the continued presence of a club with a large fan base and a rich history within the Saudi sports development landscape. Regionally and internationally, the events surrounding the team's journey this season highlight the importance of administrative and financial stability in managing modern football clubs, especially those boasting international stars. These events also underscore the significant technical value of coach Noureddine Benzekri, who has established himself as a savior for clubs during difficult times, making him a highly sought-after figure for many clubs seeking stability in the coming seasons.
