Portuguese Coach Signs Two-Year Deal with Saudi Champions ⚫🟡🇸🇦
Jeddah, 9 October 2025 — Saudi Pro League champions Al Ittihad have officially announced the appointment of Sérgio Conceição as their new head coach, with a contract running until June 2027.
The experienced Portuguese manager takes charge after weeks of negotiations, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the club as they aim to reclaim dominance in both domestic and Asian football.
🧠 A New Era Under Sérgio Conceição
Sérgio Conceição, known for his fiery passion, tactical intensity, and attacking philosophy, joins Al Ittihad following his successful tenure at FC Porto, where he won multiple Primeira Liga titles and guided the team to strong Champions League campaigns.
The 50-year-old brings a wealth of experience from Europe, having managed Nantes, Standard Liège, Braga, and most notably Porto, where he became one of Portugal’s most decorated coaches in modern times.
At Al Ittihad, Conceição is expected to instill his signature high-pressing, aggressive style — a system that could revitalize the team and maximize the talent of key stars such as Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, and Fabinho.
🧩 Coaching Staff Confirmed
Conceição will be joined in Jeddah by a trusted group of assistants and specialists:
- João Costa — Assistant Coach
- Siramana Dembélé — Fitness & Technical Coach
- Fábio Moura — Tactical Analyst
- Diamantino Figueiredo — Goalkeeping Coach
- Vedran Runje — Technical Staff
- Eduardo Oliveira — Performance Analyst
This experienced backroom team has followed Conceição through several clubs and is expected to provide continuity and cohesion in his methods.
🏆 Al Ittihad’s Ambition for Saudi and Asian Glory
The appointment comes as Al Ittihad, backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), continue their aggressive push to strengthen both on and off the pitch.
Following a mixed 2024–25 campaign, the club is determined to bounce back and reassert themselves as Saudi Arabia’s top football power, competing fiercely with rivals Al Hilal, Al Nassr, and Al Ahli.
Conceição’s track record of winning titles and developing players fits perfectly with Al Ittihad’s long-term vision to compete not only domestically but also in the AFC Champions League.
“I’m proud to start this exciting project,” Conceição said in his unveiling. “Al Ittihad is a club with a massive history and passionate fans. We’ll fight to bring them success again.”
⚽ What’s Next for Al Ittihad
Conceição’s first task will be to assess the squad ahead of the upcoming Saudi Pro League fixtures and the club’s return to continental competition.
With a mix of European stars and local talent, expectations are high that his leadership will deliver immediate impact.
🔥 Key Takeaways
- 🖊️ Sérgio Conceição signs with Al Ittihad until 2027.
- 🧠 Joined by long-time coaching team including João Costa and Siramana Dembélé.
- 🏆 Aim: Restore Al Ittihad’s dominance in the Saudi Pro League and AFC Champions League.
- ⚽ Brings proven European experience and winning mentality from FC Porto.
- 🇸🇦 Marks another major managerial signing in Saudi Arabia’s football revolution.
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