Al-Sahafi makes timely case for Al-Ittihad starting role after En-Nesyri assist

Youssef En-Nesyri helped Marwan Al-Sahafi strengthen his claim to a more prominent role at Al-Ittihad after the young winger scored shortly after coming on as a substitute against Al-Jazira.

Al-Ittihad faced the Emirati side at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday in the preliminary qualifying round for the league phase of the AFC Champions League Elite.

With Al-Ittihad already leading 3-0, Al-Sahafi added a fourth goal in the 68th minute. The 22-year-old had entered the match only a short time earlier, replacing Moussa Diaby on the right wing.

The goal came after an excellent low cross from Morocco international En-Nesyri, who delivered the ball into a dangerous area for Al-Sahafi to finish. It was a notable moment for the young Saudi player, particularly because he took over the position currently occupied by Diaby.

Al-Sahafi’s performance could prove significant if Diaby leaves Al-Ittihad. The French winger has been linked with a move to both Inter Milan and Bayer Leverkusen, creating the possibility of an opening on the right side of the team for next season.

The goal therefore offered Al-Sahafi an opportunity to demonstrate that he could be considered the club’s first-choice option in that position should Diaby depart. His contribution also underlined the value of En-Nesyri’s involvement, with the experienced Moroccan creating the chance that allowed the substitute to make an immediate impact.

Al-Sahafi is regarded as one of the most promising emerging talents in Saudi football and at Al-Ittihad. Although still only 22, he has already gained experience outside the country after spending the past two seasons on loan in the Belgian league.

During that period, he represented Beerschot and Royal Antwerp, giving him the chance to develop his game in European football before returning to compete for a place in the Al-Ittihad side.

His latest appearance came at an important stage of the club’s season, with Al-Ittihad seeking to progress from the preliminary round and secure a place in the league phase of the AFC Champions League Elite. The manner of his goal, following his introduction from the bench, will also increase attention on his prospects within the squad.

For now, Diaby remains the established player in the right-wing position. However, with his future reportedly uncertain and Al-Sahafi having taken advantage of his opportunity in Abu Dhabi, the Saudi winger has placed himself firmly in the conversation about who could inherit the role next season.