Al Ahli are navigating one of the most turbulent periods in recent memory, with the future of head coach Marino Positic increasingly uncertain after a difficult start to the 2026-27 season. The club's new board is reported to be seriously considering his dismissal, with Romanian manager Eduard Iordanescu emerging as the leading candidate to replace him. Positic inherited the role after Matthias Jaissle departed suddenly to join Newcastle United, leaving the Croatian-Dutch coach with little preparation time before competitive football began.

The results have not helped his case. Al Ahli sit sixth in the Saudi Pro League with 12 points from seven matches, a position that falls well short of expectations for a club of their stature. Their recent form across all competitions tells a story of inconsistency: two wins, one draw and two defeats in their last five outings, including a 2-1 loss to Mamelodi Sundowns in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup and a 3-2 defeat to Al Qadsiah in the league.

Compounding the pressure is the injury to defender Zakaria Hawsawi, who was hurt during Saudi Arabia's Gulf Cup campaign and left the pitch on a stretcher, with initial fears over ligament damage adding to the squad's injury concerns.

Friday's Roshn Saudi League visit to Al Fateh, broadcast on Thamanya, offers an opportunity to steady the ship. Whether Positic remains in charge beyond that fixture, however, is far from certain.