The new Saudi Pro League season for 2023-24 will start this weekend, and one of the matches will be between Al Ettifaq and Al-Nassr on Monday evening. Al Ettifaq, the home team, wants to do better than their seventh-place ranking from the previous season. On the other hand, Al-Nassr, who came in second place last season, will likely be aiming to compete strongly again.
Team News: Al Ettifaq vs. Al-Nassr
On Monday, Al Ettifaq is planning to introduce Henderson, Dembele, and Hendry for their first official matches. Given Henderson's extensive experience, Gerrard will probably make him the captain.Quaison, who has scored 13 goals in 47 league games since joining Saudi Arabia in 2021, is likely to be the main attacker for the home team alongside Dembele.
As for Al-Nassr, they might have to make some changes within a short timeframe of about 48 hours since their victory over Al-Hilal in the Arab Club Champions Cup final on Saturday. However, even though Ronaldo will be turning 39 years old in February, he probably won't be content with being a substitute.
Unfortunately, Pity Martinez and former Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina are expected to remain unable to play due to injuries.
Al Ettifaq possible starting lineup:
Victor; Al-Mousa, Tisserand, Hendry, Al-Hawsawi; Al-Kuwaykibi, Henderson, Ozdemir, Vitinho; Dembele, Quaison
Al-Nassr possible starting lineup:
Alaqidi; Al Ghanam, Alawjami, Alamri, Konan; Fofana, Brozovic, Al-Khaibari; Talisca, Ronaldo, Mane