Al-Ittihad turned the Laurent blanc page. The Saudi Arabian champion, who dismissed the French after the 0-2 defeat against Al-Nassr last Friday, is about to entrust the team's reins to a very different technician. A coach renowned for his volcanic temperament and his strong personality, who could well shake up the habits of Karim Benzema and his teammates.
Conceição arrives to shake Benzema
According to Fabrizio Romano, Sérgio Conceição a “Open the door” to an agreement with Al-Ittihad. The Portuguese, free since his departure from AC Milan last June, is in advanced negotiations with the Saudi club which wishes its immediate signature. At 50, the former FC Porto coach brings an intensity and a requirement which contrast radically with the more posed style of Laurent Blanc.
This appointment promises sparks. Conceição is known for its explosive temperament on the sidelines and its high requirements towards its players. Faced with stars like Benzema, accustomed to a certain freedom, frictions are not to be excluded. The two men, both professionals and concerned by collective interest, must find common ground. But with regard to their assertive personalities, electricity could sometimes be in the air.
A continental challenge to be met
Al-Ittihad, currently third in the Saudi championship with nine points in four games, must also straighten the bar in the Asian Champions League after an inaugural defeat 2-1 against Al-Wahda. The objective is clear: to qualify for the direct elimination phases by finishing in the top 8 of their group.
Conceição was in competition with Luciano Spalletti and Xavi for this position. His beating profile has obviously appealed to Al-Ittihad leaders, who hope that his fire temperament will galvanize a workforce of sometimes too comfortable stars. It remains to be seen how Benzema and its partners will react to this new era much more volcanic.
