Youssef En-Nesyri could start for Al-Ittihad against Al-Hilal despite George Ilenikhena’s return

Youssef En-Nesyri remains a strong contender to start for Al-Ittihad against Al-Hilal in the Roshn Saudi League’s eighth-round El Clasico, despite the availability of Nigeria striker George Ilenikhena.

Reports confirming Ilenikhena’s fitness have led to suggestions that the Morocco international could be left out of the starting line-up. However, En-Nesyri’s recent form and importance to the team mean he could still feature from the beginning in one of the biggest matches of the season.

Al-Ittihad are second in the Roshn Saudi League with 17 points, one point behind leaders Al-Hilal. The narrow gap between the clubs has increased the significance of the meeting and leaves little margin for error for either side.

In recent matches, Al-Ittihad’s young German coach Jens Wissing has selected En-Nesyri and Ilenikhena together in attack. The pair have been trusted because of the work they contribute without the ball, particularly their ability to put pressure on the opposition’s defensive line.

En-Nesyri has also rediscovered his scoring form. He has registered four goals and one assist in nine appearances across all competitions, a return that has strengthened his case for another start.

Wissing could nevertheless decide to use Ilenikhena cautiously from the bench rather than risk starting him immediately. That would allow En-Nesyri to lead the attack on his own, with the Nigerian potentially introduced for part of the match.

The Moroccan has consequently become an important part of the Al-Ittihad squad after a difficult spell last season, when his performances came under scrutiny and there were calls for him to leave the club.

His presence would give Al-Ittihad additional attacking strength against Al-Hilal, whether Wissing opts to pair the two forwards again or relies on En-Nesyri as the team’s sole striker. The final decision will depend on how much responsibility the coach is prepared to give Ilenikhena following his return to fitness.