Al-Ittihad assess futures of injured foreign duo before winter window

Al-Ittihad are waiting for a clearer picture of the fitness of Mohamed Doumbia and Richard Rios before deciding whether changes are needed to their squad during the upcoming winter transfer window.

Both players are currently recovering from injuries, and their medical progress is expected to influence the club’s recruitment plans and any decisions concerning the future of the foreign pair.

Rios suffered a left ankle sprain and damage to his fibular ligament, according to the results of an MRI scan carried out on the Colombian midfielder.

The 30 October injury occurred during Al-Ittihad’s match against Abha in the 12th round of the Saudi Pro League.

The club’s medical assessment of Rios, including the likelihood of his return to competitive action in the coming period, will form part of the evaluation of the team’s technical requirements. His condition will therefore be considered alongside the views of the coaching staff and the demands of the second half of the season.

Doumbia, meanwhile, remains in rehabilitation six months after undergoing surgery on his anterior cruciate ligament.

The Mali international recently underwent medical examinations and functional assessments in Lyon, France, with the results described as positive.

Al-Ittihad said Doumbia had achieved the targets set for this stage of his recovery. He will continue an individual rehabilitation programme, with the club expecting him to take part in some elements of group training in the coming weeks, depending on his condition and progress.

Doumbia sustained the cruciate ligament tear during Al-Ittihad’s match against Al-Kholood in the semi-final of the King’s Cup last season.

The club’s board will continue to monitor the final medical position of both players before making decisions for the winter transfer window. Those decisions will be based on the team’s needs, the coaching staff’s assessment and the requirements of the next phase of the campaign.