The Saudi Arabian national football team has been subject to disciplinary actions by the Professional Committee, with six players facing penalties for various infractions. Sultan Al-Ghanam has been fined 200,000 Saudi Riyals for requesting exemption from national team duty before the Asian Cup, a request made during a meeting with the coach on December 28, 2023. Salman Al-Faraj received a fine of 100,000 Riyals for refusing to join the national team camp in October after being called up.
Nawaf Al-Aqidi has been suspended for five months and fined 300,000 Riyals for violating regulations, seeking to delay his national team duties, sending disrespectful messages to the team management, and leaving the camp prematurely, believing he was only the third-choice goalkeeper.
Mohamed Maran, Khalid Al-Ghanam, and Ali Hazazi have been suspended for a month and fined 200,000 Riyals for leaving the national team camp after the final squad announcement, despite the opportunity to remain and join the team. These actions breach Article 10, paragraphs 1, 2, and 3 of the Professional Regulations governing players’ conduct and transfers.
The Professional Committee is firm stance underscores the importance of discipline and commitment within the national team setup, ensuring players adhere to their obligations and respect the team’s protocols. Such measures aim to maintain the integrity and professionalism of Saudi football, emphasizing the responsibilities that come with representing the nation at the highest level.
