Noor backs Conceicao's bold move as Ittihad eyes King Cup upset over Al-Nassr
27 October 2025
Noor praises Conceicao's bold leadership
Mohammed Noor, a legend of Al-Ittihad, disclosed the dialogue with Portuguese coach Sergio Conceicao, commending his audacity in dropping Serbian goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic for the derby against Al-Hilal, despite the public debate it sparked among the fans.
The comments followed a 0-2 defeat to Al-Hilal at Al-Inma Stadium in the Roshen Saudi Pro League, marking Conceicao's first major derby loss since taking over from Laurent Blanc.
Noor described Conceicao as a practical, highly effective coach who has quickly left a clear tactical imprint on the team. He noted that while the team may lose, the performance now shows organization and a defined style rather than just winning without a coherent plan.
Bravery, trust, and a brave benching decision
Noor emphasised that Conceicao’s decision to exclude Rajkovic was courageous, pointing out that the young goalkeeper Hamid Al-Shenkyti made a decisive error that influenced the match outcome. He praised the coach’s willingness to take responsibility in big games, arguing that a true coach must act boldly even if it means short-term mistakes.
He added that Conceicao’s mind for coaching, with players assigned precise roles and a visible tactical pattern, keeps the team running and shapes its style. Noor stressed that the decision was brave, even if it came with consequences.
The cup mindset and the road ahead
Noor argued that knockout matches differ from league games and that Ittihad can still triumph in the King Cup, especially with the squad now fully assembled and the club’s atmosphere positive.
He reflected on Conceicao's early tenure: after taking charge, the team had a draw with Al-Fayha, a big 4-1 win over Iraqi Police in the Asian Cup, and a 0-2 loss to Hilal, followed by a start of three straight wins (5-2 vs Al-Odhod, 4-2 vs Al-Fateh, 1-0 vs Al-Najma). Noor lauded the coach’s influence and the team’s evolving identity.
Hilal remains the benchmark
In closing, Noor lauded Al-Hilal as the constant in Saudi football’s title race while acknowledging that other teams must rise to the challenge. He stressed the need for realism: Hilal remains a perennial favorite, while the field moves around them. Noor remains confident in Ittihad’s potential to beat Al-Nassr in the cup, given the improved structure and positive club momentum.
Closing thoughts
He concluded that success hinges on trust in Conceicao’s decisions, even when they carry risk, and that the team’s renewed organization could translate into silverware this season.
