Al Ahli suffer fresh setback as Valentin Atangana injured against Al Sadd

Al Ahli’s difficult season took another turn for the worse when midfielder Valentin Atangana was forced off during their AFC Champions League Elite meeting with Al Sadd.

The Frenchman was injured in the first half and could not continue, prompting head coach Marino Pusic to make an early substitution. Ziyad Al-Jahni came on in his place as Al Ahli dealt with another setback during the fourth round of the competition.

The injury came only days after Al Ahli suffered a heavy domestic defeat, losing 6-1 to Al Shabab in the 12th round of the Saudi Pro League.

Al Ahli are now facing an unsettled period both on and off the pitch. The club have endured concerns over technical and administrative stability, with Pusic’s position reportedly at risk and the possibility of his departure in the coming days.

The injury to Atangana adds to the uncertainty surrounding a side attempting to defend its continental title. Al Ahli are the reigning champions of the last two editions of the AFC Champions League Elite and are aiming to win the trophy for a third consecutive season, which would be an unprecedented achievement.

Their domestic schedule lists a Saudi Pro League fixture against Al Taawoun on 7 November 2026. Al Sadd are due to face Al Rayyan in the Doha Bank Stars League on 8 November 2026.