Al Ahli manager Marino Pusic has left new signing Artem Bondarenko out of the squad for Tuesday’s postponed Roshn Saudi League meeting with Al Hilal, following the Ukrainian’s disappointing performance in the 3-1 defeat by Al Kholood.
The decision comes ahead of one of the most eagerly anticipated fixtures in the Saudi season, with Al Ahli seeking to recover from a heavy loss while Al Hilal aim to extend their winning run and strengthen their position in the title race.
Bondarenko, who recently joined Al Ahli, was not included in the squad for the match against Al Hilal, according to Al Ahli-linked journalist Waleed Saeed. The omission is understood to have followed his display against Al Kholood, when he failed to produce the level expected of him.
Pusic’s decision also reflects the wider disappointment surrounding Al Ahli’s performance in that match. The team struggled collectively in the 3-1 defeat, while Bondarenko was unable to make the influence expected from a player brought in to provide a fresh option for the squad.
The Ukrainian arrived at Al Ahli with considerable expectations, but his first notable test did not provide the immediate evidence the coaching staff had hoped to see. He was unable to demonstrate that he could change the course of the game or deliver the contribution Pusic demanded.
The timing of the exclusion is particularly significant because Al Hilal present a much tougher challenge. Their attacking quality means mistakes are likely to be punished, leaving Pusic with little room to select players he does not believe are fully ready or in their best form.
By leaving Bondarenko out, the Dutch manager has made clear that reputations, transfer fees or previous achievements will not guarantee a place in his line-up. Every member of the Al Ahli squad must earn the right to play through performances and effort on the pitch.
The move may therefore serve as a broader message to the squad as Al Ahli prepare for the postponed third-round fixture. Selection is not guaranteed, and players who fail to meet the required standard can quickly find themselves outside the matchday group.
Al Ahli go into Tuesday’s game needing a response after their defeat by Al Kholood. Al Hilal, meanwhile, arrive with the ambition of maintaining their momentum and continuing their challenge at the top end of the Roshn Saudi League.
