Al-Ittihad head coach Sérgio Conceição has outlined his tactical blueprint for Thursday’s Saudi Professional League (Roshn) encounter with Al-Fateh, placing emphasis on offensive balance despite the absence of star striker Karim Benzema.
Benzema’s Unexpected Absence
Karim Benzema, Al-Ittihad’s leading forward and captain, will not feature against Al-Fateh due to an ongoing dispute over contract renewal terms with the club.
Reports indicate the French striker has made the decision himself to withdraw from the squad amid stalled negotiations and frustration with the proposed new deal — a move that has injected uncertainty into the team’s build-up to this match.
Tactical Adjustments Up Front
In Benzema’s place, Conceição has entrusted Saleh Al-Shehri with leading the attack.
The Saudi international brings pace and tactical flexibility, offering a direct threat on goal while also creating space for his partners.
Conceição hopes this adjustment will preserve the team’s attacking thrust without significantly compromising creativity or forward momentum.
The projected forward line will see Al-Shehri flanked by Moussa Diaby and Ahmed Al-Ghamdi, blending local talent with experienced attacking flair to compensate for Benzema’s absence.
Midfield and Supporting Adjustments
To maintain balance and dynamic transitions between defense and attack, Conceição has also shuffled his midfield.
Roger Fernandez is set to fill in for Algerian midfielder Houssem Aouar, providing energy, distribution range, and defensive support.
The midfield trio likely to start includes:
N’Golo Kanté – anchoring defensive duties and ball recovery
Mahamadou Doumbia – linking play across the middle
Roger Fernandez – offering tactical versatility and forward support
This strategic reconfiguration aims to sustain possession and create chances while safeguarding stability against potential counterattacks.
Defensive Lineup and Overall Shape
Conceição’s side is expected to line up with an experienced back four — Hassan Kadesh, Fabinho, Danilo Pereira, and Muhannad Al-Shanqeeti — supported by goalkeeper Predrag Rajković.
This structure is designed to offer a strong foundation from which the midfield and forwards can transition quickly into offensive phases.
Match Context and Stakes
Heading into this game, Al-Ittihad occupy sixth place in the league standings with 30 points, while Al-Fateh sit tenth with 21 points.
The fixture presents an important opportunity for Conceição’s side to climb the table and reaffirm their credentials as contenders in the Roshn Saudi League despite current turbulence.
Conceição’s Strategic Message
By reshaping his offensive approach, Conceição is signaling confidence in his squad’s depth and adaptability.
The decision to maintain a proactive attacking posture underscores his belief that Al-Ittihad’s objectives — both short-term results and longer-term cohesion — remain intact even without their marquee striker.
