Al Ahli are showing signs of recovery after a difficult start to the 2026-27 Saudi Pro League season, but the club's situation remains complicated by a growing injury crisis. The 3-2 win over Al-Fayha on October 19 moved them to 18 points and fifth place in the table, continuing a run of positive results since the last international break. It was a hard-fought victory, with Artyom Bondarenko scoring twice and Firas Al-Buraikan adding a third to overturn a deficit, though coach Marino Pusic will be concerned by the defensive lapses that allowed Al-Fayha back into the game.

The bigger concern now is fitness. Ivan Toney, the league's top scorer with 11 goals, has been sidelined through injury, and further knocks sustained during the Al-Fayha match have stretched Pusic's squad thin. Losing Toney even temporarily is a significant blow given his commanding lead in the golden boot race. Al Ahli carry a postponed match in hand, which gives them a route back into the title picture if they can stay healthy and consistent.

The next scheduled fixture, at home to Al Khaleej on October 23, has been postponed due to logistical issues affecting travel across the league. That delay gives the squad extra time to recover, but it also disrupts the momentum Al Ahli have been building. With the title contenders above them finding form, Pusic needs his squad fit and focused when matches resume.