Al-Ittihad's Coaching Quest: A High-Stakes Hunt for a New Maestro
2 octobre 2025
Coach Hunt to Replace Blanc Intensifies as International Break Looms
The management of Al-Ittihad, the Saudi side, continues its quest for a new head coach to replace the former French coach Laurent Blanc, who was dismissed after the 2-0 loss to Al-Nasr in the Roshen Pro League Classic.
The team is currently led temporarily by local coach Hasan Khaleifa, who recently oversaw the club against Shabab Al-Ahli Dubai in the AFC Champions League Elite.
Asharq Al-Awsat reported that sources inside the club confirmed the decision on the new coach would be made during the international break, which lasts until October 16.
Accordingly, it is likely the new coach will be in place before the match against Al-Fayha in round five of Roshen, hosted by Al-Fayha on the 17th of this month.
Al-Ittihad want the new man as soon as possible given the month’s big tests, including a high-profile league clash with Al-Hilal and a King Cup last-16 showdown with Al-Nasr—an opportunity for revenge after their recent loss.
Infighting this season has forced the club to seek a rescue mission to save the campaign, following a historic domestic double last season.
The early setback against Al-Nasr exposed defensive frailties, while repeated injuries weakened the core, especially among defenders.
The decision to dismiss Blanc aims to bring discipline and balance between the stars in the squad.
As for substitutes for Blanc, a wave of names has circulated, led by Italy’s Luciano Spalletti, whose name has dominated the last hours, reflecting the management’s preference for Italian coaching, similar to what Al-Hilal did with former Inter Milan coach Simone Inzaghi.
Spalletti, who guided Napoli to the Italian title two seasons ago, remains among the top options.
He is praised for organizing the defense and maintaining a balanced attack, as well as his ability to handle big egos and manage a difficult dressing room.
Another candidate, Spain’s Santiago Solari, brings European experience and a reputation for working with star players, which would suit Al-Ittihad’s ambitions.
Portuguese Sergio Conceicao is also cited for his tactical discipline and rugged, physical style.
Dutchman Mark van Bommel and German Roger Schmidt are discussed as potential longer-term projects focused on development and sustained performance.
Even Jurgen Klopp’s name appeared in discussions, underscoring the club’s continental ambitions, even if the practical terms are daunting.
In the end, the club must appoint a coach who can restore the team’s form, steady the dressing room, and turn the stars into a cohesive unit able to compete domestically and continentally.
Recent comments from Klopp suggested no immediate desire to return to daily coaching duties, despite his success with Liverpool, which would not necessarily land him in Roshen.
Punchline: They’re chasing a top coach with sniper-like precision—quiet, precise, and deadly to rivals’ plans.
Punchline 2: If this coaching hunt were a match, the whistle would ring before the deadline because the clock is ticking louder than the fans.
