As Saudi Arabia prepares to host the 27th Gulf Cup, national team coach Georgios Donis finds himself under scrutiny over several squad selections. The tournament, running from September 23 to October 6, represents a significant test for the team and its technical staff, especially with fans eager to see a different performance from the Green Falcons.
Omissions Raise Eyebrows
Among the most notable absentees are Mukhtar Ali and Fares Abdi, whose exclusion has sparked debate. Both players have delivered strong performances for Al-Ittihad recently, and their presence could have provided Donis with additional options in midfield and defense.
Mukhtar Ali is known for offering varied solutions in the middle of the park, while Fares Abdi has impressed in the backline. Their absence has led many to question why they were not called up despite their recent form.
Other Names Under Discussion
The questions extend beyond Ali and Abdi. Khaled Al-Ghannam, Nayef Masoud, Abdulaziz Al-Olaywah, and Ayman Yahya have also been mentioned in discussions, given the levels some have shown with their clubs.
A Chance to Respond
The Gulf Cup offers Donis an opportunity to answer these questions on the pitch. Results and performances will reveal whether his current squad can compete effectively, especially as the tournament serves as an important step in preparations for the next phase.