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Al Ittihad Reach Asia Elite, Trezeguet Joins Al Riyadh And Turki Pulls Out Of Derby Takeover
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August 12, 2026
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From Al Ittihadâs return to Asiaâs top competition to another Egyptian name heading to Saudi Arabia and a halted English football takeover, thereâs plenty happening across regional sport. Al Ittihad have secured their place in the AFC Champions League Elite, Mahmoud Trezeguet has joined Al Riyadh on a free transfer, and Turki Al-Sheikh has pulled out of his proposed Derby County takeover.
Al Ittihad Reach AFC Champions League Elite
What Is It About
Al Ittihad have secured their place in the 2026/27 AFC Champions League Elite league phase after a 4-1 win over UAE side Al Jazira in Abu Dhabi. Steven Bergwijn scored twice, while Houssem Aouar and Marwan Al Sahafi also found the net.
Why It Matters
The win marks a strong competitive start for new head coach Jens Wissing, who has been tasked with rebuilding Al Ittihad after a turbulent season. The clubâs squad has changed significantly following major departures, including Karim Benzema and NâGolo KantĂ©.
Whatâs Next
Al Ittihad now move into Asiaâs expanded top-tier competition, while Al Jazira will continue their continental campaign in the AFC Champions League Two. For Al Ittihad, the real test begins with a new coach, a changing squad and a place back among Asiaâs elite.
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Trezeguet Joins Al Riyadh On Free Transfer
What Is It About
Egypt international Mahmoud Trezeguet is heading to the Saudi Pro League after joining Al Riyadh on a free transfer. The 31-year-old left Al Ahly by mutual agreement and now begins another Gulf chapter, this time in Saudi Arabia.
Why It Matters
Trezeguet brings major experience to an Al Riyadh side looking to improve after finishing 15th last season. The Egyptian winger has played across England, Belgium, Turkey, Qatar and Egypt, and arrives after a productive season back with Al Ahly.
Whatâs Next
Al Riyadh are reshaping their squad for the 2026/27 season after securing their financial competence certificate, which allows the club to register new signings. Trezeguet now joins as one of their headline additions ahead of the new campaign.
Turki Al-Sheikh Pulls Out Of Derby County Takeover
What Is It About
Saudi boxing power broker Turki Al-Sheikh has pulled out of a proposed takeover of English Championship club Derby County. The deal would have seen Al-Sheikhâs Lion Sport consortium acquire a controlling stake, but delays in securing approval left limited time to prepare for the new season.
Why It Matters
The takeover had already received approval from the Independent Football Regulator and the English Football League last week. Al-Sheikh said it was not right to proceed without the necessary preparation in place, while leaving open the possibility of future talks.
Whatâs Next
For now, Derby County will not move under Al-Sheikhâs ownership. The bid would have added to the growing MENA presence in English football, alongside Abu Dhabi-backed Manchester City, Saudi-backed Newcastle United and Nassef Sawiris-backed Aston Villa.
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