Al Ittihad began the 2026-27 Saudi Pro League season with a stumble, drawing 1-1 at home against Al Kholood on matchday one. Youssef En-Nesyri gave Jens Weisang's side the lead before half-time, but the hosts were pegged back early in the second half and then reduced to ten men when defender Danilo Pereira received a straight red card on 58 minutes. The result left Al Ittihad eighth in the early table with one point from one game, while seven other clubs picked up maximum points.

The manner of the result sharpened scrutiny around Weisang, who is starting his first full league campaign in charge. Analysts noted that the performance exposed familiar defensive frailties carried over from a 2025-26 season in which the club finished fifth, won no silverware, and exited the AFC Champions League Elite. Danilo's dismissal will likely trigger a suspension, adding pressure to a backline that already looked uncertain.

Off the pitch, transfer activity continues to shape the squad. Reports indicate that one player has been deemed surplus to requirements by Weisang, with Al Ahli identified as a potential destination, while a move for a new signing remains in progress. The club's next assignment arrives on Tuesday, August 18, when they travel to face Al Najma in the King Cup, a competition that offers an early opportunity to build confidence before the league schedule intensifies.