The Al-Ittihad team received a severe blow ahead of their anticipated match against Al-Wahda of the UAE, as the chances of striker Saleh Al-Shehri participating in the decisive game have diminished.

The player's potential absence is due to his continued implementation of his treatment program following a recent calf muscle injury sustained during his participation with the Saudi national team in the last training camp.

The medical team at the club is working to prepare Al-Shahri as quickly as possible, but the current indications do not seem promising regarding his participation in the upcoming match.

The federation is preparing to face its counterpart, Al Wahda of the UAE, in the AFC Champions League for the elite, in a match taking place on Tuesday evening at the Inma Stadium.

The Union finished the group stage in fourth place with 15 points, while Al-Wehda qualified for the same round after securing fifth place with 14 points.

These potential absences pose additional challenges for the coaching staff, who are striving to prepare suitable alternatives to maintain the team's chances in the continental competition.