KSAsportz Report
JEDDAH — Saudi champions Al Ittihad have made headlines by parting ways with French coach Laurent Blanc after a troubling start to the new season, as they consider high-profile replacements such as Porto’s Sérgio Conceição and former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernández. According to recent statistics, Al Ittihad has faced three consecutive losses, including setbacks in the Saudi Super Cup and AFC Champions League Elite, capped by a crucial defeat against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr in the league.
The club announced Blanc’s dismissal early Sunday morning. The 58-year-old coach had previously led Ittihad to a historic domestic double last season, capturing both the Roshn Saudi League title and the King’s Cup.
Club president Fahad Sindi defended the timing of the decision, insisting it was based solely on performance and the need for the team to progress. “We had to make a tough call,” Sindi remarked. He dismissed rumors that star striker Karim Benzema had undue influence over the decision, calling such claims “fabrications,” while praising Benzema’s commitment to the club.
Benzema, who has a market value of approximately $30 million, remains central to Ittihad’s future. However, recent reports from Europe suggest that José Mourinho has been in contact with the striker concerning a potential return to European football.
Keeping the 36-year-old’s focus will be critical as interim boss Hassan Khalifa, along with U-21 coach Egan Carrasco, is set to manage the first team until a permanent appointment is confirmed.
At present, Al Ittihad has initiated discussions with two unnamed candidates, with an aim to finalize a new coach during the upcoming international break. According to the latest survey, 62% of fans have expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s current form, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
In a bid to enhance its structure, the club has also launched a new “Transfers Committee” this summer, led by president Sindi. This committee, which also includes CEO Domingo Oliveira, sporting director Ramón Planes, and the club’s financial chief, will oversee recruitment strategies in line with FIFA and AFC regulations.
For Ittihad, the immediate challenge is twofold: they must secure a coach capable of steadying the team and restoring momentum while ensuring that marquee players remain settled and invested in the club.