Julen Lopetegui Set to Become Al-Ittihad Coach After Nuno Espirito Santo’s Sacking as He Reunites With Karim Benzema: Reports

Al Ittihad parted ways with Nuno Espirito Santo after lackluster performances across all competitions. The Portuguese manager was claimed to have had a rift with Karim Benzema and also eroded trust within the club. Just days after the unfortunate incident, the Saudi side has potentially found their replacement, as Julen Lopetegui will join forces with the Saudi Arabian soccer club.

Al Ittihad’s attempt to defend its league title took a significant hit as the club occupies the fifth position. Upon arriving, Lopetegui will have to shorten an eleven-point deficit to reach the top of the table.

Julen Lopetegui to reunite with Karim Benzema at Al Ittihad

According to reports, a formal agreement has been finalized with Lopetegui, appointing him for the remainder of the season, including the FIFA Club World Cup. The official confirmation is yet to be declared by the club. Al Ittihad is in discussion about the terms of the contract, which will soon be agreed upon in the forthcoming days.

Real Madrid let go of the Spanish coach during his first season with the club. Lopetegui shared a good relationship with the Los Blancos stars during his short spell, including Karim Benzema. The manager used to highly regard his goal-scoring prowess and contribution to the team. Undoubtedly, Lopetegui would be more than happy to reunite with the French veteran following his potential move to the Middle East.

Previously, the ex-Wolves manager had expressed keen interest in a Middle Eastern chapter. Lopetegui’s experience with the European clubs would help Al Ittihad get back to winning ways. Meanwhile, Benzema found his stride for the Saudi side following a significant feud with the former coach in the previous game.

The Frenchman proves criticism wrong with a stellar performance

Al Ittihad is currently being coached by Nuno Santo’s assistant, Hassan Khalifa, on an interim basis. The Tigers found their seventh win in the league after beating Abha with a 4-2 scoreline on Friday. Karim Benzema turned the tide with an ecstatic hat trick, breaking his goal drought in consecutive matches.

READ MORE: After 2 Wins in 8 Games, Al Ittihad Told to Sack Nuno Espirito Santo as Karim Benzema’s Side Plummet on League Table

The previous manager criticized the Los Blancos icon for his lackluster gameplay during their defeat in the previous AFC Champions League match. Nuno Espirito Santo also condemned him for not exerting any pressure on the attacking third and held him accountable for the disappointing results. However, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner netted his ninth goal for Al Ittihad during the last game, showcasing his influence as the season progresses.

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