Saudi National Team Squad for Jeddah Camp: Al-Bulaihi Returns, Neves Omitted, and Historic Women’s Call-Up
Alright, sports fans, get the drums rolling and raise your voices—our French coach, Hervé Renard, just unveiled the Saudi national team squad for the preparatory camp in Jeddah, which will feature two high-calibre friendlies. This isn’t just any squad; it marks the return of a lion, features some absences that turned heads, and, above all, for the first time, it truly feels like Saudi football is a game for everyone.
Al-Bulaihi Returns, Neves Left Out
As soon as the Saudi national team squad dropped on the federation's social media accounts, Twitter and WhatsApp lit up. Of course, everyone was waiting to see what would happen with Ali Al-Bulaihi after an injury that had fans worried. But Renard put everyone’s minds at ease, made a firm statement, and decided to call up "The Fox," Al-Bulaihi. He knows full well that without Al-Bulaihi’s grit, the defence just isn't the same. On the flip side, the shock came with the omission of Portuguese player Ruben Neves. No disrespect to his abilities, but it seems he's been off the pace lately, and the coach preferred to go with younger, hungry players or those who fit his system better.
The Big Names on the List
Renard doesn’t need any pointers on how to pick a squad. This list features a selection of stars from the Roshn League, with names that will definitely make an impact. Let's take a look at some of the standout names who will be grabbing our attention during the Jeddah camp:
- Ali Al-Bulaihi: As mentioned, his return feels like a brand-new signing for the national team.
The team captain and a star for the big moments—his presence brings a sense of security. - Firas Al-Buraikan: The young striker we’re pinning big hopes on up front.
- Marwan Al-Sahafi: After his impressive performances for his club, he’s fully earned his spot.
- Musab Al-Juwayr: One of the rising stars we’re looking at for the long haul.
Ruben Neves Out: Tough News for Al-Nassr Fans
We can’t just gloss over the Ruben Neves story. He’s undeniably a top player at the club level, but he’s been left out of this squad. Is it purely a tactical decision, or is there more to it? Either way, Al-Nassr fans might be disappointed, but the national team’s best interests come first. Speaking of Al-Nassr, it begs the bigger question: is Cristiano Ronaldo upset that his teammate Neves isn’t there? (Smile). We wish the legend well focusing on his club, but today, all eyes are solely on the Green Falcons.
A Historic First: The Saudi Women's National Team Squad
Now for the heartwarming surprise. Amidst all the talk about the men’s camp, the Saudi federation simultaneously announced the Saudi women's national football team squad. Yes, you read that right. This is a milestone in itself. Having an official women’s squad shows that Saudi football is truly for everyone, men and women. And here’s where the Ministry of Tourism comes in—they’ll undoubtedly leverage these consecutive successes to attract tourists and businesswomen from abroad, because the Kingdom is now a sports and tourism destination in every sense of the word.
Wrapping Up: Football Brings Us Together
Ultimately, what matters most to us as Saudi fans is seeing our national team perform at a level that makes 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 hoist the nation's flag high. God willing, the Green Falcons will have a successful camp in Jeddah and give us a victory we can all celebrate together.