In a swift move reflecting the team's need to bolster its ranks, Al-Shabab's match against Al-Najma in the 17th round of the Saudi Professional League saw the debut of midfielder Basel Al-Sayali. This appearance came just hours after the Riyadh-based club officially announced his signing, making him the first winter transfer to actually play for "The White Lions.".

The Al-Shabab club management, headed by acting chairman Abdulaziz Al-Malik, announced earlier on Tuesday the completion of the signing of Al-Sayyali from Al-Hazm on a two-and-a-half-year contract. This deal comes as part of the management's efforts to strengthen the team's technical options and address the inconsistent results the club experienced in the first half of the season.

Context of the deal and its importance for young people

Al-Shabab, one of Saudi Arabia's oldest and most prestigious clubs with a rich history of achievements, occupies a position unworthy of its name in the Roshan League standings, sitting in 14th place with only 11 points before the start of the round. This poor ranking prompted the management to act swiftly in the winter transfer market to bolster the squad, particularly in midfield, which had been a clear weakness.

The signing of 24-year-old defensive midfielder Basel Al-Sayali is seen as a solution to bolster the team's midfield and provide greater protection for the back line. Al-Sayali made 10 appearances for his former club Al-Hazm this season, contributing one goal, demonstrating his effectiveness and match fitness, which will allow him to integrate quickly.

Expected impact and player's future

On the local front, Al Shabab fans hope that Al Sayali's arrival will mark the beginning of a corrective phase that will put the team back on track to compete for top positions. The young player is expected to add physical strength and ball-winning ability, qualities the team has lacked in many matches. His quick inclusion in the Al Najma match also sends a clear message from the coaching staff of their confidence in his abilities and his capacity to make an immediate impact.

As for the player himself, his move to a club the size of Al-Shabab represents a significant leap in his career, an opportunity to prove his worth on a bigger stage and under different pressures. He will have to adapt quickly to the new playing system and prove he is worthy of this trust, especially given the high level of competition in the Roshan League this season, with its constellation of international and local stars.

In a significant development eagerly awaited by Saudi and European sports fans, Al-Ahli Saudi FC has submitted a substantial official offer to its Ivorian player, Franck Kessié, aiming to renew his contract and secure his continued presence with the team. This proactive move by the club's management comes in light of the player's outstanding performance and the desire of German coach Matthias Jäsle to retain the core players of his ambitious project.

Background and Historical Context of the Deal:
Franck Kessié joined Al-Ahli in the summer of 2013 from FC Barcelona, ​​in what was one of the most prominent transfers in the Saudi Professional League at the time. His move was part of a major transfer revolution in the Kingdom, which attracted international stars with the aim of raising the level of competition and the marketing value of the league. Before arriving in Jeddah, Kessié had already made a name for himself in Europe, playing a pivotal role in AC Milan's Serie A title win and delivering strong performances for Barcelona, ​​making him a player with extensive European experience and high technical ability.

Kessie's Importance to Al Ahli's Project:
The 27-year-old Kessie is considered the driving force in Al Ahli's midfield. Coach Yassle relies on him completely as an indispensable element, thanks to his immense physical capabilities, his dual role in winning back possession and initiating attacks, as well as his goal-scoring ability. Retaining Kessie is a top priority for the club's management, as his continued presence ensures the team's stability and competitiveness in all domestic and continental competitions, sending a clear message about the club's serious ambition to compete for titles.

Crossroads: Al-Ahli's offer or a return to Europe?
According to the reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano, Kessie is currently facing a real crossroads. The first option is to accept Al-Ahli's lucrative offer and extend his stay in the Saudi league, which offers him an increasingly competitive environment and significant financial benefits. The second option is to reject the offer and wait until the summer to return to Europe, where he is attracting considerable interest from top clubs, most notably Juventus, who are looking to bolster their midfield with a player of his caliber. The fact that several major clubs are still interested in acquiring his services on a free transfer next summer further complicates his decision.

The expected impact of
Franck Kessié's decision will not be limited to Al-Ahli club alone, but will extend to reflecting the image of the Saudi league as a whole. If he decides to stay, it will enhance the league's reputation as a destination capable not only of attracting stars but also of retaining them at their peak, thus refuting the notion that it is merely a final stop for players. However, if he leaves, it may be seen as an indication that the lure of playing at the highest European levels and competing in the Champions League remains stronger than the financial incentives offered by Saudi clubs to some players.

Al-Hilal's training session on Tuesday evening saw the participation of new signings, defender Murad Hawsawi and midfielder Rayan Al-Dossari, as part of their serious preparations for the upcoming match against Al-Fayha in the 17th round of the Saudi Professional League. This marks the first appearance for the duo since their official transfer from Al-Khaleej during the current winter transfer window, a move aimed at strengthening the "Leaders" squad for the crucial second half of the season.

Al-Hilal's strategy to strengthen their lead

These signings are part of Al Hilal's strategy to bolster the squad with young, talented players to ensure continued competitiveness at all levels, both domestically and continentally. The league leaders are looking to expand their tactical options and secure strong alternatives in various positions, especially given the congested fixture schedule and the multiple competitions they are participating in, including the AFC Champions League and the King's Cup. Acquiring players like Hawsawi and Al-Dawsari is not just an immediate boost to the team's performance, but also a long-term investment in promising Saudi talent, in line with the Kingdom's vision for football development.

The importance of facing Al-Fayhaa in the upcoming match

Al-Hilal's upcoming match against Al-Fayha, scheduled for Thursday evening, January 22nd at 8:30 PM, is of paramount importance. Al-Hilal enters the match at the top of the league table with 41 points, aiming for another victory to solidify their position and distance themselves from their closest rivals. Meanwhile, Al-Fayha sits in twelfth place with 14 points and will be looking to secure a positive result to improve their standing and move away from the relegation zone. Despite the difference in league position, matches in the Roshan League are often unpredictable, requiring Al-Hilal to maintain high concentration and show complete respect for their opponent.

Expected impact of the new duo

The arrival of Murad Hawsawi is expected to add depth to Al Hilal's backline, providing coach Jorge Jesus with an additional option at center-back. This will help the team cope with any potential absences due to injuries or suspensions. As for Rayan Al-Dossari, he is expected to inject more dynamism into the midfield and enhance the link between defense and attack. Their quick participation in group training is a positive indicator of their rapid adaptation and the coaching staff's desire to utilize their services as soon as possible, even if it's initially on the bench. While Al Hilal prepares to continue its successful campaign in the Roshan League, fans eagerly await the official debuts of Hawsawi and Al-Dossari, hoping they will be a strong addition that contributes to the club's ambitions of winning more titles this season.