JEDDAH — Al-Ahli head coach Matthias Jaissle expressed understanding for fans' frustration over the team's recent domestic performance issues, acknowledging that both the coaching staff and players share the supporters' disappointment. Speaking at a press conference ahead of Al-Ahli's AFC Champions League elite match against Iraq's Al-Shorta, Jaissle said, "I understand the anger of our fans; we're frustrated too. The fans deserve better, and we are striving to deliver that." He added, "Our fans are aware of the challenges we face. I have outlined the team's needs multiple times to become more competitive, and we are doing our best." When asked about the utilization of forward Firas Al-Buraikan in positions outside his primary role due to the underperformance of English striker Ivan Toney, Jaissle replied, "I prefer not to discuss individual players. I am fully aware that Firas is a natural striker, but we have a team lacking balance, which is why I deploy him in different roles." "We needed to sign a left winger and a defensive midfielder, and without meeting those requirements, we're adjusting positions."
