Ali Lajami returns to boost Al Hilal ahead of Al Ittihad derby

Al Hilal have welcomed back defender Ali Lajami from a lengthy injury in time for Saturday’s Saudi Pro League classic against Al Ittihad.

The Riyadh side will host Al Ittihad at Kingdom Arena on Saturday in the headline fixture of matchweek eight, with the two clubs separated by only one point at the top of the table.

Lajami was injured during Al Hilal’s 3-0 victory over Al Ahli at the beginning of September, in the third round of the Roshn Saudi League. The problem has kept the Saudi international out of action ever since.

Al Hilal confirmed on Wednesday that Lajami had returned to part of the team’s training session as preparations continued for the derby. The club published the update on its official account on X, stating that the defender had taken part in the opening section of the group session.

The announcement makes Lajami the second Al Hilal player to return from a long-term injury in the build-up to the match against Al Ittihad. France defender Theo Hernandez also suffered an injury in the same game against Al Ahli.

A training update from the club also noted that Summerville completed a recovery session.

Al Hilal will go into Saturday’s meeting looking for another victory to maintain their position at the summit. They currently lead the Roshn Saudi League with 18 points, while Al Ittihad sit second on 17.

Lajami’s return provides additional defensive depth for a fixture that could have a significant impact on the early title race, although Al Hilal’s announcement confirmed only that he participated in the first part of training.