Al Ittihad picked up their first Saudi Pro League win of the season on August 21, beating Al Qadsiah 1-0 away from home, but the manner of victory underlined just how much work lies ahead for Jens Vissing's side. George Ilenikhena's strike just before half-time settled a chaotic contest in which Ittihad were reduced to ten men after Dion Lopy's red card in the 47th minute, with midfielder Hassan Kadesh also forced off through injury. Grinding out three points under that kind of pressure showed character, yet the underlying picture remains complicated.

The result moved the club to seven points from two games, sitting seventh in the table, already six points behind the early pace-setters Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ahli and Neom. After finishing fifth last season without a trophy, the pressure to close that gap quickly is real.

Off the pitch, the transfer window is generating as much noise as anything on it. Moussa Diaby, a key figure in the 2024-25 double-winning squad, appears increasingly likely to return to Bayer Leverkusen at a financial loss for the club, with reports suggesting a deal is close. Meanwhile, a move for free agent midfielder Franck Kessie remains stalled over contractual disagreements, despite Juventus being unable to match Ittihad's offer. The club is also said to be in negotiations over a Lyon forward and has received interest in defender Nawaf Al-Aqidi.

Ittihad host Al Hazem on August 24 at King Abdullah Sports City, a fixture they will be expected to win as they look to build momentum in what is shaping up to be a demanding early run of fixtures.