With the Saudi Arabia squad for next month’s Doha training camp due to be announced next week, manager Georgios Donis is weighing several changes ahead of the country’s preparations for the AFC Asian Cup 2027.
The camp will take place during the international window from 9 to 17 November. Saudi Arabia are scheduled to face South Korea on 13 November before meeting Uzbekistan on 17 November, giving Donis two opportunities to assess his players and refine his plans for the continental tournament.
The Greek coach is expected to retain many of the players involved in the previous international gathering, when Saudi Arabia won the Gulf Cup. However, injuries, current form and disciplinary considerations could all influence the final selection, according to the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat.
Juwair and Al-Dawsari in contention
Musab Al-Juwayr is among the players strongly considered for a recall after missing the previous camp for disciplinary reasons. His appearance at Saudi Arabia’s Gulf Cup celebrations has increased the possibility of him returning to Donis’ plans.
The fitness of captain Salem Al-Dawsari is also being closely monitored. He has recovered from the injury suffered at the end of Saudi Arabia’s involvement in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and could return to the squad, although the coaching staff have yet to make a final decision.
Hammam Al-Hammami is less likely to be available after suffering a hamstring injury during the Gulf Cup final. He is continuing his treatment programme, while goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi is also expected to miss out because of injury.
The Saudi medical team is reportedly following the conditions of Al-Aqidi, Alaa Al-Haji and Al-Hammami almost daily, with Donis receiving updates on their recovery and chances of returning to training in time for the camp.
Donis hopes at least one of the three will recover, given their importance to his plans. Al-Haji, who was injured during the Gulf Cup, remains in rehabilitation, leaving the midfield as one area where Saudi Arabia may need an alternative.
Abdulrahman Al-Sanbi is a leading option to replace Al-Aqidi in goal. He was previously included in the preparatory camp in the United States and continued training with the national team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite not making the final tournament squad.
Defensive changes expected
Hassan Kadesh faces a lengthy absence because of injury, prompting Donis to consider a change in defence. Ali Lajami is among the leading candidates to fill the vacancy after previously being included in Saudi Arabia’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Donis is also keen to give opportunities to younger players as he seeks to reduce the team’s average age. Abdulaziz Al-Suwailem, the Al Fateh defender, has emerged as a possibility after impressing last season and being nominated for the Saudi Pro League’s Young Player of the Season award.
Soud Abdulhamid could also return after missing the previous international gathering with an injury. The Lens defender has resumed regular appearances for his club this month, strengthening his case for selection.
The final squad size has not yet been confirmed, but Saudi Arabia could take 30 players to Doha – four more than for the previous camp. The larger group would allow Donis to assess more options amid the injury problems and possible returns before the next stage of preparations for AFC Asian Cup 2027.