Donis backs Wissing despite Al-Ittihad’s recent setbacks

Greece manager Georgios Donis has endorsed Jens Wissing’s work at Al-Ittihad, despite the club’s difficult results in its last two matches.

Donis announced his final 30-man Saudi Arabia squad on Wednesday for the upcoming friendly internationals against South Korea and Uzbekistan on 13 and 17 November.

Four Al-Ittihad players have been included: left-back Fares Abdi, midfielders Mukhtar Ali and Ahmed Al-Ghamdi, and right-winger Marwan Al-Sahafi.

The number of Al-Ittihad players selected is higher than during the Gulf Cup 27, held in September and October. Donis named only two players from the club for that tournament, including Mukhtar Ali. The other was defender Hassan Kadesh, who misses the latest squad after suffering an injury during the previous international break.

The selections indicate that Donis remains satisfied with the quality of Al-Ittihad’s performances, even though the team have struggled in their two most recent fixtures.

Al-Ittihad drew 1-1 with Abha in the Saudi Pro League before suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat by United Arab Emirates side Al Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite.

The defeat in Asia has contrasted with a stronger domestic campaign. Al-Ittihad are fourth in the Saudi Pro League with 24 points from 11 matches, having recorded seven wins, three draws and one defeat.

Their only league loss came against leaders Al-Hilal, who are six points clear of Al-Ittihad at the top of the table.

Al-Ittihad’s record in the AFC Champions League Elite has been less convincing. They are 10th in the West group with four points from one victory and one draw, while they have also suffered two defeats.

Saudi Arabia’s next international fixtures will be played against South Korea on 13 November and Uzbekistan on 17 November.