Al-Ittihad midfielder Houssem Aouar says playing in different positions this season has affected his performances and made it difficult to reproduce the level he showed last term.
The Algeria international was speaking after Al-Ittihad beat Al-Qadsiah 1-0 on Friday in the second round of the Roshn Saudi League. Al-Ittihad played a large part of the match with 10 men but held on to secure a valuable three points.
Aouar praised the team’s resilience after the victory, particularly the way they responded to being reduced to 10 players.
“It was a great and difficult match, and we deserved to win because of the incredible way we fought,” he said.
The midfielder said Al-Ittihad had demonstrated a level of defensive commitment that he had not seen from the side for some time.
“For a long time, I had not seen Al-Ittihad fight and defend in this way,” Aouar added. “Playing with 10 players requires suffering and running, so we are happy with the victory.”
He attributed the result to the collective effort of the squad and the character shown throughout the game. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Al-Ittihad protected their lead and completed a hard-fought victory against a strong Al-Qadsiah side.
Aouar was also asked why his performances have appeared different from those of last season. He explained that his role has changed significantly under German manager Yann Vissing, with the player being used away from his usual position from the start of the current campaign.
“This season is different for me. Since the beginning, I have not played in my main position,” Aouar said.
“I play in any position where the team needs me, so it is difficult for me to show the same level that the fans are used to.”
The 27-year-old’s comments highlight the tactical changes made by Vissing since taking charge of Al-Ittihad. The German manager appears to be relying on Aouar’s flexibility and his ability to operate in several areas of the pitch, although that versatility has also affected the midfielder’s attacking output and overall influence.
Aouar will hope for greater stability in his role as the season progresses and for the opportunity to return to the position in which he made his biggest contribution during his first campaign with Al-Ittihad.
Last season, he helped the club win both the Roshn Saudi League and the King’s Cup, completing a domestic double in his first season with the side.
For now, however, Aouar’s priority is contributing wherever Al-Ittihad require him. His latest comments suggest that he accepts the demands of Vissing’s system, even if he believes a settled position would make it easier to rediscover his best form.
The victory over Al-Qadsiah gave Al-Ittihad an important early-season result, with the side’s ability to withstand pressure and defend with 10 players providing an immediate demonstration of the determination Aouar praised after the final whistle.
