Al-Ittihad’s Marbella camp faces rethink after Saudi schedule reshuffle

Al-Ittihad are reassessing their plans for the winter break after recent changes to the domestic fixture schedule affected the club’s programme, including an overseas training camp planned for January.

The postponement of round 13, together with expected changes to the dates of Saudi Roshn League matches, has prompted the club to review its preparations, according to sources quoted by Al-Riyadiyah.

Marbella in Spain had been selected as the venue for Al-Ittihad’s winter camp. The city also hosted the club’s summer training camp at the start of the current season.

However, the final date and arrangements for the camp will not be confirmed until the Saudi Pro League announces the amended competition schedule in the coming days, the sources said.

The changes follow a decision by the Asian Football Confederation on Tuesday morning to postpone the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. The tournament had been scheduled to begin in Saudi Arabia in January next year, but will now take place during December 2027 and January.

With the revised programme still to be established, German coach Jens Wissing has given Al-Ittihad’s players five days off.

Al-Ittihad play in the Saudi Roshn League.