Conceição's contract with Al-Ittihad terminated | Settlement details and the club's future
The end of Conceição's journey with the Saudi club
Al-Ittihad Club officially announced the termination of the contract of their first-team football coach, Portuguese Sergio Conceição, by mutual agreement, confirming earlier reports in the Okaz newspaper. This decision brings to an end the coach's tenure with the team, which fell short of the expectations of both the fans and the management. The club's media center revealed via the "X" platform that the termination of Conceição's contract was finalized after reaching an agreement whereby the club would pay only the penalty clause of 5 million riyals, instead of the full value of the contract, which was set to run until the summer of 2028. This move aims to turn over a new leaf and prepare for the next phase.
This decisive decision came after a period of review and comprehensive evaluation of the team's performance last season, which witnessed a significant decline in results across all competitions. Despite the high hopes placed on the coach to lead the team to championships, the final outcome was unsatisfactory. The team failed to retain the league title, finishing fifth, and was eliminated in the King's Cup semi-finals and the AFC Champions League quarter-finals – results unworthy of Al-Ittihad's history and stature.
A disappointing season accelerates the decision to leave
Conceição took over as coach from Frenchman Blanc and led the team in 41 official matches. Despite winning 21 games, the team suffered a significant number of defeats (13) and seven draws. These figures reflect the team's technical instability throughout the season, which was evident in their fluctuating performances and inability to secure victories in crucial matches. The season served as a true test of the team's competitiveness in light of the remarkable development of the Saudi Professional League, which now boasts some of the world's best players and coaches, raising the bar for competition to unprecedented levels.
What does the termination of Conceição's contract mean for the future of the federation?
The decision to part ways with Conceição represents a significant turning point for the club's management, who are striving to get back on track and restore the team to its rightful place as a perennial title contender. This move demonstrates a serious desire to build a strong and well-rounded squad for the upcoming season, capable of facing significant challenges both domestically and continentally. Now, all eyes are on the identity of the new coach who will be entrusted with leading the club's sporting project. The management is searching for a prominent figure with the experience and personality necessary to make a difference and fulfill the aspirations of Al-Ittihad's vast fan base, who yearn to see their team return to its former glory.
