Tariq Diab backs a surprise coach for Al-Ittihad, sparking a Saudi Pro League debate
5 April 2026
Overview
Former Tunisian football legend Tariq Dhiab surprised everyone by nominating an unlikely name to lead Al-Ittihad for the coming season, taking over from Portuguese coach Sergio Conceicao.
Speculation had swirled about Conceicao's departure at season's end, amid strained relations with players and management and a drop in results.
Direct quotes and context
In an interview on the Saudi network Eight, he said: "The club's management should consider the Saudi coach Saad Al-Shehri (the coach of Al-Ettifaq) to lead the team in the near future."
He added: "Al-Shehri is better than Conceicao, as shown by his impressive work with Al-Ettifaq this season; he even outperformed Brendan Rodgers at Qadsiah in clear terms."
He continued: "Al-Shehri has imposed his control over the Al-Ettifaq dressing room, and his tactical fingerprints are obvious; with proper support and resources, Conceicao could be surpassed by him with the Union."
He concluded: "A great coach works in silence and leaves his mark; that is what Al-Shehri did with Al-Ettifaq, and I hope he gets a bigger chance with the backing he deserves."
Note: The discussion has already sparked lively chatter in Saudi football circles, with supporters weighing internal options against external appointments.
Outlook
The debate has intensified among fans and experts about the best path for Al-Ittihad in the hot Saudi Pro League, with insiders weighing internal candidates like Saad Al-Shehri against pursuing an external appointment.
Whether the club sticks with continuity or opts for a marquee change, the coaching saga promises to shape Al-Ittihad’s fate as the season approaches its decisive stretch.
Punchline 1: If coaching were a sniper rifle, Saad Al-Shehri would be the guy who quietly reloads and still hits the target before halftime.
Punchline 2: In football, the bench is just a chair with a better view of the drama—at least the coffee is still lukewarm when the result comes in.
