Jens Wissing's Bold Line-up Decisions for Al-Ittihad's Season Opener

Jens Wissing sent an early, sharp message with his first Roshn Saudi League line-up of the season. George Ilenikhena did not just miss out on a starting berth for Al-Ittihad’s opener against Al-Khaleej in Jeddah. He did not make the squad at all.

Instead, the German coach built his attack around Youssef En-Nesyri, handing the Moroccan the No 9 role at Al-Inma Stadium and trusting him as the focal point of a new-look front line. On the flanks, he went with pace and direct running: Moussa Diaby cutting in from one side, Steven Bergwijn from the other.

The decision cut across Ilenikhena’s momentum. The Nigerian had featured off the bench in midweek, coming on in the 4-1 win over Al-Jazira of the UAE in the AFC Champions League Elite play-off qualifier. That outing was not enough to keep him involved for the league curtain-raiser. His omission was absolute.

He was not alone. Jan-Carlo Simić, the Serbian defender who started that Al-Jazira match, also disappeared from the matchday list. Wissing reshaped his back line, recalling Ahmed Al-Julaidan at right-back. Faris Abdi kept his place on the opposite side, with Danilo Pereira and Stefan Keller forming the central pairing in front of goal.

If the defence changed, the middle of the pitch did not move an inch. Wissing kept faith with the same midfield trio that controlled the play-off: Farha Al-Shamrani, Dion Lopy and Houssem Aouar all retained their roles, tasked with feeding an attack now built around En-Nesyri’s penalty-box presence.

Opening Day Choices

Al-Ittihad’s choices on opening day were clear. Established names, clear structure, and bold omissions. For Ilenikhena and Simić, the battle to force their way back into Wissing’s plans has started earlier than anyone expected.