Saudi press reports revealed today, Monday, developments regarding the status of Nigerian player George Ilenikhena, Al-Ittihad's striker, and his availability to join "The Dean" in the upcoming match against Al-Hilal.
"The Dean" is expected to face Al-Hilal next Saturday evening at "Kingdom Arena," as part of the marquee clash of Round 8 of the Saudi Roshn League, for the 2026-2027 season.
According to the newspaper "Al-Riyadiyah," Al-Ittihad's German coach, Jens Wissing, is awaiting a medical report on Nigerian player George Ilenikhena's injury to determine when he will return to training.
Coordination is scheduled between Al-Ittihad's medical staff and their Nigerian counterparts to decide on his rehabilitation program, with initial indications suggesting his chances of playing in the Al-Hilal match are slim.
The 20-year-old suffered physical issues while with the Nigerian national team, but he came on as a substitute for 15 minutes against Guinea-Bissau and also featured in his international debut against Madagascar.
The young Nigerian international is considered one of the key pillars of "The Jeddah Pole" this season, having played nine matches across all domestic and continental competitions, scoring six goals and providing two assists, according to the player's statistics on the global website "Transfermarkt."
Ahead of Saturday's showdown, Al-Ittihad occupies second place with 17 points, after winning five matches and drawing two, without suffering any defeat.
In contrast, Al-Hilal tops the Saudi league standings with 18 points, having won six matches and lost one against Neom by 2-0 in a match held at "Kingdom Arena."
