Oman today_ Following Al Hilal’s withdrawal, Saudi club Al-Ahli is also considering pulling out of the upcoming Saudi Super Cup, scheduled to take place next month in Hong Kong.
This decision reportedly comes after internal discussions and consultations with the team’s German head coach, Matthias Jaissle. The primary reasons cited are the team’s current lack of full readiness and the incomplete transfer activity ahead of the new season.
Sources close to the club have emphasized that this move is aimed at allowing Al-Ahli to focus entirely on key competitions in the upcoming season, including the Roshn Saudi League, the King’s Cup, and the AFC Champions League — tournaments the club considers to be of greater importance given its status.
Should Al-Ahli’s withdrawal become official, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation is expected to invite Al-Shabab to replace them. According to reports, Al-Shabab is ready to accept the invitation and participate in the tournament if approached formally.
Al Hilal had previously announced their withdrawal, citing a tight recovery window for players following the FIFA Club World Cup and a desire to avoid early-season fatigue.
Under the original schedule, Al Hilal was set to face Al-Qadsiah on August 19, followed by Al-Nassr vs. Al-Ittihad on August 20. The final had been slated for August 23.
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