Amid the speculation surrounding the winter transfer market in the Saudi Professional League, Al-Fateh Club has put an end to the rumors circulating, as it categorically denied the existence of any official negotiations by Al-Hilal Club to sign the outstanding right-back, Saeed Ba’atia, during the current transfer period.

An official statement from Al-Fatah clarifies the truth

Mohammed Al-Dhaif, the media officer for Al-Fateh Club, confirmed in an exclusive statement to Al-Midan Al-Riyadi that all rumors circulating about an agreement or even preliminary talks with Al-Hilal's management regarding the transfer of Saeed Baatia are completely unfounded. Al-Dhaif stated, "There are absolutely no negotiations taking place at this time from Al-Hilal to sign Saeed Baatia, and there is no truth to the existence of any agreement for his transfer to the club." This denial underscores Al-Fateh's commitment to retaining one of their key players.

General context: Al-Hilal's ambitions in the transfer market

The interest of major clubs in outstanding local players comes amidst the fierce competition in the Saudi Professional League, which has become a destination for some of the world's top stars. Al-Hilal, currently leading the league, is looking to strengthen its squad to maintain its domestic dominance and compete strongly in the AFC Champions League. According to Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, reinforcing certain positions, including right-back, is a priority to increase squad depth and provide diverse tactical options. Al-Hilal is known for its ability to secure high-quality signings to ensure its continued dominance, as demonstrated recently by the acquisition of Brazilian left-back Renan Lodi to bolster the left flank.

The player's importance and the potential impact of the deal

Saeed Baatia (23 years old) is considered one of the most prominent Saudi talents in the right-back position. He is distinguished by his solid defensive capabilities and effective attacking contributions, making him a logical target for major clubs seeking high-quality local players. For Al-Hilal, signing a player of Baatia's caliber would be a strategic addition for the future, especially given the Saudi Arabian Football Federation's regulations that mandate a certain number of local players in each team's squad. As for Al-Fateh, retaining a player of Baatia's quality is vital to maintaining their competitiveness in the league, while selling him in the future could represent a significant financial gain that can be reinvested in the team's development.

In conclusion, despite Al-Fateh's official denial, the transfer market remains open to all possibilities until the very last day, as the situation could change rapidly. However, the current stance confirms that Saeed Baatia will continue to play for Al-Fateh, and Al-Hilal fans must wait to see what their club's management decides in the coming days.

Al-Shabab strengthens its ranks with Jordanian talent Ali Al-Azaizeh

In a move aimed at bolstering their attacking capabilities during the second half of the season, Saudi club Al-Shabab officially announced the signing of young Jordanian international Ali Al-Azaizeh. Al-Azaizeh joins the "Lions" on loan from Jordanian club Al-Ramtha, with the contract running until the end of the current season. This move is part of the club's efforts to meet the technical staff's requirements and strengthen the team during the current winter transfer window.

Background of the deal and its sporting context

This signing comes at a time of fierce competition in the Saudi Professional League, with clubs all vying to bolster their squads with top local and international talent. The winter transfer window is a crucial period for clubs to reassess their situations and address weaknesses exposed in the first half of the season. Accordingly, Al-Shabab's management has been active in the market, with the Al-Azaiza deal not being the only acquisition, but rather part of a carefully planned package of signings to strengthen the team across all positions.

Who is Ali Al-Azaizeh?

Ali Al-Azaizeh (20 years old) is considered one of the most promising rising talents in Jordanian football. Playing as a winger and striker, he is distinguished by his speed, individual skills, and penetrating runs, making him a key player for his club, Al-Ramtha, and the Jordanian Olympic team. His outstanding performances attracted attention, drawing the interest of several regional clubs before Al-Shabab successfully secured his services. Al-Azaizeh is expected to add depth and new options to Al-Shabab's attack, injecting it with energy and youthful energy.

Youth strategy in the winter transfer window

In its official statement, published on its X platform account, the club confirmed that the acting chairman of the board, Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Malik, signed the contract with the player, wishing him success in his career with the team. This deal, along with other moves, demonstrates a clear vision from the club's management and coaching staff. Prior to Al-Azaiza, Al-Shabab had announced the signing of Ali Al-Asmari from NEOM FC, and had also reached agreements to acquire the Al-Ittihad duo, right-back Fawaz Al-Saqour and striker Saleh Al-Shehri, reflecting a serious desire to compete strongly during the remainder of the season and improve the team's position in the standings.

Importance and expected impact

At the local level, the addition of Al-Azaizeh and the other new signings are expected to raise the technical quality of the youth team and help them achieve positive results. Regionally, the transfer of a young and talented Jordanian player to one of the top Arab leagues highlights the footballing talent in Jordan and enhances opportunities for Jordanian players to play professionally abroad, thus contributing to the overall development of football in the region.

Al-Ahli's German coach, Matthias Jäissle, faces a new challenge: making significant changes to his starting lineup ahead of the highly anticipated match against Al-Ettifaq. This crucial encounter, part of the 19th round of the Saudi Professional League, is scheduled to take place at Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam, adding further excitement to the game.

General context and importance of the match

This match takes on special significance given the intense competition for top positions in the Roshan League standings, a league that has garnered global attention after attracting international stars. Al-Ahli, making a strong return to the top flight, aims to solidify its place in the top four to secure a spot in next season's AFC Champions League. Meanwhile, Al-Ettifaq, under the guidance of English coach Steven Gerrard, aspires to improve its league position and deliver a performance that demonstrates the strength of its new sporting project.

The impact of absences on Ysle's plans

These forced changes to Al-Ahli's lineup come as a result of the absence of several key players for various reasons. The absence of full-back Ali Majrashi and Zakaria Hawsawi, in addition to midfielder Valentin Atangana and the solid Turkish defender Merih Demiral, is a significant blow to coach Yasle's defensive plans. These absences will force him to reshuffle his cards and rely on substitute players to prove their worth in this difficult test, thus testing the depth and strength of the team's bench.

Al Ahly's expected lineup

In light of these circumstances, Jääsle is expected to field a lineup that aims for a balance between defensive duties and attacking prowess, relying on his international stars. Predictions suggest the following possible lineup:

• Goalkeeper: Edouard Mendy
• Defense: Mohamed Bakr Suleiman, Rayan Hamed, Roger Ibanez, Matthew Dames
• Midfield: Franck Kessie, Ziad Al-Jani, Enzo Meo
• Forwards: Riyad Mahrez, Galeano Wenderson, Ivan Toni

Al-Ahli enters the match with high morale after their recent victory over Neom with a score of three goals to nil in the King's Cup, which gives the players a morale boost and great confidence to achieve a positive result against Al-Ettifaq and continue the journey of competition in the Roshan League.