Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Dr. Juan Jimenez, the head physician for Al Hilal’s first team, has provided updates on the injury statuses of several key players, including captain Salem Al-Dawsari, Ruben Neves, and goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais.

Speaking in a video posted on the club's official account on X, Jimenez revealed that Al-Dawsari has been following a rehabilitation program for an ankle injury sustained recently.

“This injury will keep Salem Al-Dawsari out of action for two to three weeks,” said Jimenez.

“He won’t be able to participate in matches during this period, but we are working hard to ensure his swift recovery so he can rejoin the team as soon as possible.”

On Ruben Neves, the Portuguese midfielder who was injured during Al Hilal’s AFC Champions League Elite match against Al Ain, Jimenez explained that surgical intervention was required.

“Following the injury, we monitored Neves for a few days to evaluate its progression. It was later decided that surgery on the patellar tendon in his knee was the best course of action. The procedure was successful, and he is now undergoing an intensive rehabilitation program. We anticipate his return to match action in January.”

Discussing the condition of goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais, Jimenez highlighted ongoing concerns related to a previous lower back surgery.

“Al-Owais has been experiencing lower back pain, a recurrence from his earlier surgical procedure. As the medical team, our priority is to manage his recovery carefully during this period to ensure he returns in peak condition,” he said.

Jimenez added that Al-Owais is undergoing a month-long treatment and rehabilitation program focused on strengthening his back and providing him with the necessary physical rest.

“We expect him to return to regular training sessions by December,” he concluded.