New Coaching Era and Tactical Shifts

The home team embarks on this new season under the guidance of a new head coach, Spaniard Imanol Alguacil. The specialist is endeavoring to instill fresh tactical systems, whether it be a 4-2-3-1 or a 4-4-2 formation. However, such fundamental changes demand considerable time to implement effectively. Any significant tactical overhaul at the season’s commencement inevitably risks disrupting established on-field connections and mutual understanding among players.

Significant Squad Departures

A critical factor that cannot be overlooked is Al-Shabab’s substantial personnel losses during the offseason. The squad saw the departure of two of its most influential players from last season: Musab Al-Juwayr and Argentine Christian Guanca. These individuals were instrumental in creating chances and scoring goals, and their exit represents a direct blow to the team’s offensive capabilities.

Uneven Pre-Season Form

The pre-season preparation has been far from smooth, further indicating that the team is still in its formative stages. Matches played in Austria and a friendly encounter against Al-Riyadh (ending 2:2) demonstrated that the team’s playing mechanisms are not yet fully refined. New acquisitions, such as Swiss midfielder Vincent Sierro, are still integrating into the squad, and expecting instant synergy with their teammates would be premature.

Coaching Stability and Tactical Continuity

In stark contrast to their opponents, Al-Khaleej has retained Greek coach Georgios Donis at the helm. This decision ensures tactical continuity and facilitates quicker adaptation for new players to the established system. The team isn’t starting from scratch; instead, they are strategically strengthening their existing squad.

Impactful Transfer Campaign

Furthermore, their squad enhancements appear highly impressive. The club has executed a robust transfer campaign, bringing in nine new players. Among the notable newcomers are figures boasting significant European experience, including Norwegian forward Joshua King, Luxembourgish goalkeeper Anthony Moris, Dutch defender Bart Schenkeveld, and Greek striker Georgios Masouras.

Productive Pre-Season Preparation

Al-Khaleej conducted a high-quality training camp in the Netherlands, participating in four friendly matches. Upon their return, the team played a control fixture against Al-Ettifaq, which concluded in a 2-2 draw. This outcome suggests that the refreshed squad is already finding its rhythm and is prepared to challenge strong adversaries.