Football Season Guide

After a few good seasons regressed last term. Finished eighth but full 15 points behind the sixth spot and the last visa for international football. All season displayed lack of consistency, had 12 wins and 13 defeats. Scored only 40 goals, even 2 of the 3 relegated teams scored more than that. Argentinian coach Arruabarrena was sacked in February. The season was beyond saving by then so Al-Abdali served as a caretaker for the remainder. In the summer, trusted Brazilian Péricles Chamusca again. He led the team for 3 good years between 2022 and 2024, before guiding the new sensation NEOM to the First Division title last term. Chamusca knows most of the players well and he is trusted. His return should see a return to a much more open and aggressive style of play. Prior the slump in attack last season Al Taawoun were always among the top 8 highest-scoring sides in the Saudi Pro. Inner midfielder Fayçal Fajr is now 37-years-old and he might be removed from the slot of 8 foreign players over 21 allowed to play in the Saudi Pro. Instead, new arrivals Abdalellah Hawsawi and Mohammed Mahzari can rotate in the role. If this happens Al Taawoun would be able to sign another big foreign name and the rumours are they are on the lookout for a right winger or a striker. Flavio’s ability to distribute the ball will be relied upon yet again, while the main hope up front rests on the shoulders of Columbian striker Martinez. Provided with quality service he can be prolific.