Saudi National Team Squad for Jeddah Camp: Al-Bulaihi Returns, Neves Snubbed, and Historic Women’s Call-Up
Alright, sports fans, time to get excited. Our French coach, Hervé Renard, has just unveiled the Saudi national team squad for the upcoming training camp in Jeddah, which will feature two high-stakes friendlies. This isn’t just any squad announcement—it’s got the return of a key player, some major omissions that will raise eyebrows, and on top of it all, a sign that Saudi football is truly becoming a game for everyone.
Al-Bulaihi Returns, Neves Left Out
The moment the Saudi national team squad dropped on the federation’s social media, Twitter and WhatsApp lit up. Everyone was watching to see what would happen with Ali Al-Bulaihi, after an injury scare had fans worried. But Renard has put those fears to rest, making a clear statement by including "the Fox," Al-Bulaihi. He knows full well that without Al-Bulaihi’s fire, the defence just doesn’t feel complete. On the flip side, the shock was the omission of Portuguese star Ruben Neves. No disrespect to his talent, but it seems he hasn’t been at his best lately, and the coach has opted for younger, more dynamic players or those who fit his system better.
Star Names in the Squad
Renard doesn’t need lessons on how to pick a squad. This list features top talent from the Roshn Saudi League, with names that will get us all keen. Let’s check out the key players who will grab our attention at the Jeddah camp:
- Ali Al-Bulaihi: As mentioned, his return feels like a brand-new signing for the national team.
- Salem Al-Dawsari: The captain and a big-game player. Having him there is a massive comfort.
- Firas Al-Buraikan: The young striker we’re pinning huge hopes on up front.
- Marwan Al-Sahafi: After his standout performances for his club, he’s thoroughly earned his spot.
- Musab Al-Juwayr: One of the rising stars we’re looking at for the long haul.
Neves Out of the Picture: Bad News for Al-Nassr Fans
We can’t just gloss over the Ruben Neves situation. He’s undoubtedly a top player at club level, but he’s been left out of this squad. Is it purely a tactical call? Or is there more to it? Al-Nassr fans might be disappointed, but the national team’s needs come first. Speaking of Al-Nassr, the big question remains: is Cristiano Ronaldo feeling the pinch because his club teammate Neves isn’t there? (Smirk). We wish the legend all the best with his club, but today, all the focus is on the Green Falcons.
For the First Time: The Saudi Women’s National Team Squad
And here’s the surprise that truly warms the heart. Amid all the talk about the men’s camp, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation simultaneously announced the Saudi women’s national football team squad. Yes, you read that right. This is an achievement in itself. Having an official women’s squad means that Saudi football is truly for everyone, men and women. And this is where the Ministry of Tourism comes in—they’re sure to leverage these consecutive successes to attract tourists and businesswomen from abroad, because the Kingdom is now a fully-fledged sports and tourism destination.
Wrapping Up: Football Bringing Us Together
In the end, what matters most to us as Saudi fans is seeing our national team put in performances that make us proud. Whether it’s the Saudi national team squad for the men led by Renard, or the Saudi women’s national football team squad, the goal is the same: to fly our flag high. Best of luck to the Green Falcons at the Jeddah camp, and may they give us a victory we can all celebrate together.