Al Hilal, Al Nassr and Al Ittihad have rejected a Saudi Pro League request to open first-team training to fans and media, according to a report by Saudi newspaper Arriyadiyah published on 7th October. The open training sessions would have taken place at least once a month.
Image credit: An Al Hilal fan holds up a scarf on matchday. Photo: Al Hilal SFC / alhilal.com
Open training sessions: what the league asked for
Arriyadiyah says the league sent a circular to clubs last week. It set out a wish to let supporters and the media attend training for Roshn Saudi League sides on a regular basis, with sessions held at least once a month.
According to the same report, the aim is to strengthen the link between clubs and their fans, give the media more room to cover team preparations, and lift public and media interest around the league.
Why the clubs rejected open training sessions
Arriyadiyah, citing a source, reports that Al Hilal, Al Nassr and Al Ittihad led the clubs that rejected the idea. The clubs’ concern is privacy. Coaching staff want to keep sessions closed so the technical and tactical work they are doing is not exposed, especially in the build-up to important matches.
What happens next
The report says Al Hilal, Al Nassr and Al Ittihad are expected to meet the league to either scrap the open training sessions proposal or find a compromise that respects the technical side and the privacy of the teams. No meeting date or outcome has been reported yet.
For supporters, the practical point is simple. Nothing has changed for now, and Al Hilal sessions remain closed to the public. Whether a limited version emerges will depend on that meeting. We are attributing this to Arriyadiyah’s source, and neither the league nor the clubs have been quoted publicly on the matter.
Read more: Ali Lajami joins part of Al Hilal training before Ittihad.
Would you like to see open training sessions at Al Hilal, or should preparation stay private?
