Sérgio Conceição Set to Become Al Ittihad’s New Head Coach

Al Ittihad have reached a verbal agreement with Portuguese manager Sérgio Conceição to become their new head coach. The deal is at an advanced stage, with only the contract length left to settle, expected to be two years.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Al Ittihad have been in talks with Sérgio Conceição and have now secured a verbal agreement for his appointment. Conceição, well known for his spells at FC Porto and AC Milan, has agreed to take the job. The formal announcement is expected soon, with both sides finalizing contract details. The club is eager to bring in his leadership after a disappointing start to the Saudi Pro League season. Conceição comes with a strong reputation, having won ten major trophies at Porto.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Al Ittihad currently finds themselves in sixth place in the Saudi Pro League after 10 games, with 15 points. They are seven points behind leaders Al Hilal and three behind fourth-place Al Nassr. The team has struggled for consistency this year, winning just four of their last ten matches and suffering several late defeats. According to a report, Al Ittihad is currently sixth in the Saudi Pro League table following a series of disappointing results, including a recent loss that ended their three-game unbeaten streak.

Conceição’s experience, especially leading Porto to multiple cup victories and his brief, eventful spell at AC Milan, is seen as key to turning their season around. He was last in charge of AC Milan, where he claimed the Italian Supercup but was let go after Milan finished eighth and missed out on European football.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Al Ittihad’s next match is against Al Taawon, who sit just behind them in seventh place. With Conceição set to arrive, all eyes will be on how quickly he can make an impact. The team faces a tough schedule, including games against title challengers Al Hilal and Al Nassr in the coming weeks. Conceição will need to settle quickly, unite the squad, and revive their campaign if they are to close the gap at the top and qualify for continental competitions next season.