Moussa Diaby sent off for red card outburst against Al-Hazem

Moussa Diaby was shown a straight red card after an on-field outburst during Al-Ittihad’s Saudi Pro League clash with Al-Hazem, leaving his team temporarily shorthanded.

The French winger lost his temper while tightly marked by an opponent and reacted by kicking the player in the groin in full view of the referee.

The incident drew an immediate dismissal, with the referee issuing a straight red card without hesitation. Diaby now faces potential disciplinary action from the league, which could result in a lengthy suspension.

“This is a regrettable moment,” a club source said. “It not only affects the player but also puts additional pressure on the team in crucial fixtures.”

The sending-off comes at a critical stage of the season for Al-Ittihad, who are striving for top positions in the league.

Diaby’s absence could leave a gap in attack, as the club prepares for upcoming matches without one of its key players.

Diaby, previously celebrated for his pace and creativity on the wing, rarely draws attention for disciplinary reasons.

The incident marks a rare lapse in judgment, contrasting sharply with the explosive but controlled style that has defined his career since his time at Bayer Leverkusen.

Al-Ittihad now faces the challenge of regrouping and maintaining momentum while awaiting confirmation of the suspension length.

The club will need to adapt its tactical approach in the short term, balancing the need for points with the loss of one of its most dynamic attacking options.