Saad Al-Shehri's departure from Al-Ettifaq: Administrative division and the team's future
The recent decision to dismiss national coach Saad Al-Shehri from his position as head coach of Al-Ettifaq's first football team has created a clear rift within the club, sparking controversy and division among the fans and officials of "Faris Al-Dahna" (the Knights of Ad-Dahna). While one faction within Al-Ettifaq believes he should remain in his post in recognition of his efforts during a difficult period, another faction prefers his departure before the start of the new season and the search for a new coaching staff capable of achieving the club's future ambitions.
Al-Shehri's appointment came at a critical time, as he took over from English coach Steven Gerrard in a move aimed at restoring stability to the team. Despite the complex circumstances the club faced, most notably financial challenges and the delayed payment of player and coaching staff salaries for several months, sometimes reaching six months, Al-Shehri succeeded in delivering good performances and leading the team to positive results that maintained their position in the league standings.
Challenges of the current phase and their impact on the decision
Saad Al-Shehri's task was by no means easy. He worked in a highly pressured environment, both administratively and financially. His ability to motivate the players and deliver strong performances despite months of unpaid wages, as he himself stated on several occasions, is a significant professional achievement. This performance is precisely what made his departure a point of contention. Those who supported his continued tenure argued that he deserved a full opportunity in ideal and stable conditions to fully demonstrate his abilities, while others believed that the next phase required a radical change to keep pace with the significant development of the Saudi Professional League.
What comes after Saad Al-Shehri's departure?
Al-Ettifaq officially announced on Sunday, via its X platform account, the termination of its contract with coach Saad Al-Shehri, thanking him for his time with the team. The statement read: “Thank you, Saad Al-Shehri, for your time with the team.” This decision presents the club's management, headed by Samer Al-Mishal, with a significant challenge: quickly finalizing the appointment of a new head coach to ensure the team's preparations for the upcoming season are not disrupted. Al-Ettifaq finished last season in seventh place in the Saudi Professional League standings with 50 points, earned from 34 matches, with 14 wins, 8 draws, and 12 losses. Now, all eyes are on the identity of the next coach, who will be tasked with building upon these achievements and competing strongly in a league that has become a global focus.
