Houssem Aouar explains how Al-Ittihad’s new tactical demands have affected his form

Houssem Aouar says his unfamiliar start to the season at Al-Ittihad is largely the result of being asked to play in different positions under German coach Jan Vising.

The Algeria international made the comments after Al-Ittihad beat Al-Qadsiah 1-0 on Friday in the second round of the Roshn Saudi League. The victory came despite Al-Ittihad playing a large part of the match with 10 players, with the club holding on to secure three important points.

Aouar praised his team-mates for the way they responded to the challenge and said the result reflected the character they showed against a strong opponent.

“It was a great and difficult match, and we deserved to win because of the incredible way we fought,” said Aouar.

The former Al-Ittihad player added that the team’s defensive effort was particularly significant after it was reduced to 10 men.

“It has been a long time since I saw Al-Ittihad fight and defend like that. Playing with 10 players requires suffering and running, so we are happy with the victory,” he said.

Aouar said the result was built on collective effort and the spirit displayed by the squad throughout the game. He also addressed why his performances have differed from those of last season, when he operated in his more familiar role.

“This season is different for me. Since the beginning, I have not played in my main position,” he said.

The 27-year-old explained that he had been willing to adapt to whatever role the team required, but that doing so had made it more difficult to reproduce the level supporters had previously seen from him.

“I play in any position the team needs me to play in, so it is difficult for me to show the same level the fans are used to,” Aouar said.

His comments underline the tactical changes introduced by Vising since taking charge of Al-Ittihad. The coach appears to be making use of Aouar’s versatility and his ability to perform in several areas of the pitch, although the player is expected to benefit from greater consistency in his role as the season develops.

Aouar joined Al-Ittihad ahead of last season and played an important part in the club’s success during his first campaign. Al-Ittihad won both the Roshn Saudi League and the King’s Cup of Saudi Arabia, with Aouar contributing from his customary position.

The Algeria international’s latest remarks suggest that he believes a more settled role could help him recover the form he showed during that double-winning season. For now, however, he remains focused on adapting to the demands of Vising’s system while helping Al-Ittihad maintain its winning start to the new campaign.