Conceicao's Debut Sparks Caution
Former Al-Ittihad star Khamis Al-Zahrani warned about the emotional temperament of the new Portuguese coach Sergio Conceicao, who is set to lead Al-Ittihad in his first match.
Conceicao took over after Frenchman Laurent Blanc was dismissed following a 2-0 defeat to Al-Nassr in the fourth round of the Roshen Pro League.
Conceicao's first test will be against Al-Fayha on Friday evening, in round five, at Majmaah City Stadium.
Al-Zahrani says Conceicao is known as an emotional coach who can show his temper toward players, noting past clashes with players such as Danilo, a former Porto defender now with Al-Ittihad.
On the possibility of clashing with big stars like Karim Benzema, Al-Zahrani added: I think Benzema's mindset, the responsibility toward the club's fans, and last season's form under Blanc will create a synergy between him and Conceicao.
A televised feature highlighted Al-Ittihad vs Al-Fayha as part of the Roshen Saudi Pro League schedule, with crests and club histories on display.
Speaking on TV, Al-Zahrani said that if there is a clash between them, it would ripple through the squad and the management would step in to separate them; the simplest option could be to part ways with the coach, but the atmosphere at Al-Ittihad could help keep relations positive.
He also noted that Benzema may have influenced Blanc's appointment, but Conceicao will not trigger a crisis; he is fully aware of the situation and unlikely to clash with Benzema unless asked to take defensive duties, which would be difficult given Benzema’s age and fitness.
Key Attributes
Al-Ittihad's former star emphasized that Conceicao brings the qualities needed for a strong start, while warning that early matches will be heavy and demanding.
Al-Ittihad faces Al-Fayha tonight, then travels to Karbala to play Al-Shorta in the AFC Champions League group stage, seeking their first win in the competition after two defeats to Al-Wahda and Shabab Al-Ahli UAE.
Later, a high-stakes Clasico in Jeddah against Al-Hilal awaits in round six, a crucial test for Conceicao to prove he can steady the ship and keep pace with leaders as the title race heats up.
On Oct 28, Al-Ittihad will host Al-Nassr in the King Cup round of 16 at the First Park Stadium in Riyadh, a rivalry that has delivered dramatic headlines in recent seasons.
Distinctive Approach
Conceicao is renowned for a strong, passionate style built on tactical discipline and realism, with emphasis on defensive organization and quick transitions. He typically uses 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1 but adapts to the opponent while preserving the team’s fighting identity.
His approach centers on high midfield density and relentless pressure on the ball carrier, aiming to shrink space and force mistakes, enabling rapid counters on the flanks.
He places a premium on physical conditioning and defensive discipline, demanding strict adherence to roles with flexibility in positional exchanges among wingers and midfielders.
In his Porto spell, he blended realism with attacking efficiency, producing a defensively solid, direct team that exploited crosses and vertical passes to the forwards.
He is also known for a strong personality in handling stars, not tolerating complacency, and earning the respect of his players even under strict management.
His appointment comes at a pivotal moment after a period of fluctuating results, with the club counting on him to restore solidity, identity, and competitiveness both locally and continentally.
Punchline 1: If football coaching were a sniper drill, Conceicao's aim is so precise the ball ducks when he speaks.
Punchline 2: And if players complain, remember this: the scoreboard doesn’t lie—discipline is the final whistle.
