Al Khaleej Return to Training Amid Concerns Break Could Affect Results

Al Khaleej resume training on Tuesday after a seven-day break following the postponement of Round 13 of the Saudi Pro League. The pause raises questions about whether the team can maintain its level and recent positive results.

Al Khaleej had recorded three wins over Al Fayha, Al Fateh and Al Hazem in less than two weeks, despite suffering a four-goal defeat to Al Ahli in Jeddah. The team had previously benefited from the break in September and early October, following a run of draws and defeats, before beginning to regain its balance with a win over Al Fayha.

Al Khaleej put in impressive performances against Al Nassr and Al Ettifaq, but coach José Gomes faced criticism before the team began its winning run. After drawing with Al Ettifaq, they beat Al Fayha and Al Fateh, then came from behind to defeat Al Hazem by four goals, repeating their comeback after falling behind.

The experience of substitutes Musa Barrow and Joshua King helped the team in its matches against Al Fateh and Al Hazem, after injuries had previously limited their availability. Gomes said King’s age led him to prefer keeping him as an impact substitute rather than starting him, while the absence of injured players prompted the coach to rotate the lineup. He noted that having a full squad against Al Hazem and scoring four goals gave him a positive indication of the variety of the team’s attacking options.

Al Khaleej are ninth with 15 points, having recorded three wins, drawn six matches and lost three.