Mukhtar Ali Joins Saudi Squad After Musab Al‑Juwair Exclusion

The Saudi national team’s technical staff announced the exclusion of Musab Al‑Juwair from the "Green" camp in Jeddah, citing undisclosed disciplinary reasons as the squad prepares for the 2027 Gulf Cup.
Exclusion and Replacement Details
The 23‑year‑old forward, who plays for Al‑Qadsiah and has 39 caps, six goals and four assists, was removed. Coach Georges Donis then called up Al‑Ittihad midfielder Mukhtar Ali as his replacement.
Context of the Gulf Cup
Ali has 14 international appearances with two goals. Saudi Arabia competes in Group A of the 2027 Gulf Cup alongside Iraq, Kuwait and Oman, with a final roster of 26 players expected.
The move sparks discussion on team discipline as the squad continues its regional preparations.
Related Articles

Saudi Al-Ittihad knocked out of Club World Cup after 2-1 loss to South Africa's Sundowns
Al-Ittihad lost 2-1 to South Africa's Sundowns in the Club World Cup second round, ending its tournament run. Al-Ittihad's goal came in the 19th minute from an opponent's mistake, while Nuno Santos scored twice for the visitors in the 17th and 80th minutes. Sundowns retain the Afro-Asian-Pacific Cup title.

Emotional Gesture by the Rahimi Brothers After Al Ain Goal vs Al Nassr
Al Ain brothers Sufian and Hussein Rahimi displayed an emotional reaction after scoring against Al Nassr, refraining from celebration in memory of their late father, which drew widespread sympathy online.

Abdulrahman bin Mosaad Criticizes Tight Scheduling in Roshn League
Prince Abdulrahman bin Mosaad criticized the Roshn League's 2026/2027 schedule, attributing the rise in player injuries to the intense early-season fixture list. He proposed structural changes, including reducing the number of teams in the King's Cup and extending the season's end date, to mitigate the physical strain on clubs.