Aouar Returns for Al-Ittihad in AFC Champions League Elite Opener

Al-Ittihad head into Asia with a key piece back in place.

German coach Jens Wissing confirmed that Algerian playmaker Houssem Aouar is fit and ready to feature against Qatar’s Al-Shamal in the AFC Champions League Elite, ending any doubts over his availability.

Al-Ittihad travel to Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor on Monday for their opening game of the league phase, a fixture that already carries weight for a club with continental ambitions. Having Aouar on the plane changes the mood.

Wissing, speaking in the pre-match press conference and quoted by Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, made it clear: Aouar is available for selection and in condition to play against Al-Shamal.

That news lands at exactly the right time.

The Algerian missed Al-Ittihad’s last outing, a 3-1 win over Al-Faisaly on Friday in the seventh round of the Saudi Roshn League, and his absence was felt between the lines even as the result went their way.

Since arriving from Roma in the summer of 2024, Aouar has quickly become one of the pillars of Wissing’s side. Creative, composed, and brave on the ball, he has injected a different tempo into “the Tigers’” midfield.

The numbers back it up.

Eight appearances in all competitions so far this season, two goals, one assist.

Beyond the stats, he has given Al-Ittihad a reference point in advanced areas, the player teammates look for when the game tightens.

For a club chasing a deep run in the AFC Champions League Elite, those qualities matter.

With Al-Ittihad opening their campaign away from home, in a World Cup venue, under the lights at Al Bayt, the stage is set. Now Wissing has his Algerian star back at his disposal, the question is simple: how far can this partnership carry “the Tigers” in Asia?