Al-Ittihad Welcomes Back Star Player After Year-Long Absence

Bammasaud Returns to Action for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Pro League

In an exciting turn of events for Saudi football, Al-Ittihad’s left-back, Ahmed Bammasaud, is set to make his much-anticipated return to the pitch. Under the guidance of French coach Laurent Blanc, Al-Ittihad has warmly welcomed back Bammasaud to the squad, a move that has invigorated the team’s defensive options after a year-long absence due to injury.

Overcoming a Major Setback

Ahmed Bammasaud had been sidelined for nearly a year following a severe injury — a cruciate ligament rupture sustained during a league match against Al-Raed in December 2023. After undergoing an intensive rehabilitation and treatment program, Bammasaud is now considered match-fit, ready to reestablish himself as a key component of Al-Ittihad’s defensive lineup.

Preparations in Dubai

Currently, Laurent Blanc and the Al-Ittihad squad are engaged in a short training camp in Dubai. This period of preparation comes as the Saudi Pro League experiences a temporary halt, accommodating the Saudi national team’s participation in the Arabian Gulf Cup, set to be held in Kuwait from December 21 to January 3.

Friendly Face-Off with Emirates Club

During their Dubai camp, Al-Ittihad scheduled a friendly match against the Emirates Club, offering a valuable opportunity for Bammasaud to regain match fitness and showcase his readiness for competitive action. Bammasaud was named in the starting eleven for this friendly, highlighting his smooth transition back to full fitness. He joined a squad that also featured players like Mohamed Al-Mahasnah, Yassin Jaber, and Nawaf Al-Jadani, showcasing Al-Ittihad’s strong lineup.

Upcoming Challenges

As the squad returns to Saudi Arabia following their training camp, Al-Ittihad is poised for a major competitive challenge. They are set to face Al-Hilal in the quarter-finals of the King’s Cup on January 7. This match, scheduled at the Kingdom Arena, promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Al-Ittihad aiming to advance further in the prestigious tournament.

Coach’s Perspective

Coach Laurent Blanc has expressed optimism about Bammasaud’s return, emphasizing the player’s hard work throughout his recovery. Blanc noted that Bammasaud’s resilience is not just a win for the player but also boosts team morale. His return is expected to bolster the defense as Al-Ittihad strives to maintain momentum in both the league and cup competitions.

Support from the Fans

The news of Ahmed Bammasaud’s return has been met with enthusiasm from fans, who have eagerly followed his rehabilitation journey. The December 18 announcement on the team’s Twitter handle, showcasing the starting lineup that included Bammasaud, drew significant interest and support from the Al-Ittihad fan base.

Conclusion

Ahmed Bammasaud’s return marks a significant moment for Al-Ittihad as they prepare to navigate the challenges of the upcoming matches. His journey back to professional play is a testament to the resilience and dedication required to overcome such injuries, serving as an inspiration not only for his teammates but for football fans across the Kingdom. As Al-Ittihad moves forward, they will look to integrate Bammasaud’s skills and experience seamlessly into the team dynamics, further strengthening their quest for success in the league and cup competitions.