Laurent Blanc Sacked as Al Ittihad Manager After Home Loss to Al Nassr

Al Ittihad have fired manager Laurent Blanc after losing 2-0 at home to Al Nassr. This ends his short but successful time at the club.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Al Ittihad lost 2-0 to Al Nassr, ending their three-game unbeaten streak. Blanc was unhappy with injuries in defense and said only Ahmed Sharahili and Yassin were fit. He admitted Al Nassr were better and asked for a review of recent results. Blanc had 17 wins and one draw in his last 18 home games. But after this loss, he was fired. Hassan Khalifa is now the interim coach.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Al Ittihad have had mixed results lately. Under Blanc, they won the Saudi Pro League and King’s Cup last season, raising hopes for more success. This season, they are inconsistent and stand fifth, five points behind leaders Al Hilal. Karim Benzema is back from injury, but defensive issues continue. The club changed coaches to improve their chances in a tough season. Al Ittihad wants to strengthen their squad for the Saudi Pro League’s season, including new signings like young Serbian defender Jan-Carlo Simić, who joined from Anderlecht in a deal worth more than €20 million according to recent reports.

WHAT NEXT?

Hassan Khalifa’s first game is against Al Fateh next week in the Saudi Pro League. Al Ittihad are still aiming for continental qualification but need to catch up with the top teams. Al Fateh are just three points behind Al Ittihad in sixth place, making the match important for both sides. Khalifa must fix defensive problems and lift team spirit as fans look for improvement.