Conceição Named as New Coach of Al-Ittihad

In a bold move to revitalize their campaign, Saudi Arabian Pro League club Al-Ittihad has appointed former AC Milan boss Sérgio Conceição as their new head coach. The Portuguese manager was unveiled in a dramatic social media video titled “The King Rules the Game,” emphasizing the club’s ambition to return to dominance.

Conceição, who has penned a two-year contract, becomes the fourth Portuguese to lead the club, following in the footsteps of notable predecessors including Nuno Espírito Santo, who now manages West Ham United.

The 49-year-old is eager to embrace his new challenge. In his announcement video, Conceição declared:

“Victory is not a choice,” he said. “It is an identity that defines us. Rivals may change and their allies will fall but the champion remains. The champion owns the game. I am Sérgio Conceição, I came to build glory with Ittihad.”

A decorated manager, Conceição spent seven seasons with FC Porto, guiding them to three Primeira Liga titles. His success in Portugal led him to AC Milan midway through last season. However, his tenure there ended in disappointment after the club finished eighth in Serie A and suffered defeat against Bologna in the Italian Cup final.

Conceição takes the helm at Al-Ittihad following the dismissal of Laurent Blanc, who was relieved of his duties after a 2-0 loss to league rivals Al-Nassr in late September. That match marked the end of Blanc’s 14 months in charge.

Currently sitting third in the Saudi Pro League, just three points behind leaders Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad are still well within reach of the title. The club hopes that Conceição’s leadership and winning mentality will elevate them back to the summit of Saudi football.

Team V.DIR-EM-UAE