Al Ittihad is experiencing a decline in their fortunes after lackluster performances in the Saudi Pro League. Nuno Espirito Santo’s job with the Saudi side appears to be in jeopardy after being held accountable for the poor results. However, Al Ittihad’s officials held a divergent opinion regarding the squad’s declining results. Reports are claiming that they are ready to back the head coach despite their winless streak in the Saudi Pro League.
The reigning SPL champions have been struggling to secure a victory in the last five games of the league. Al Ittihad was also handed their first defeat in the AFC Champions League this season against Al Quwa Al Jawiya. What’s exactly going on at the Al Ittihad headquarters?
Al Ittihad’s stance on Nuno Espirito Santo
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According to Al-Riyadiya, some of the directors do not consider Nuno Santo responsible for the defeats experienced in the league. The club officials believe they have a more significant issue within the squad that is hindering their ability to perform the complete potential. Al Ittihad is plagued by injury concerns for their eight players, including Fabinho and Coronado.
The Saudi side struggled to impact the offensive third. Marque signing Karim Benzema failed to capitalize on opportunities in the majority of the games. The Los Blancos icon has only scored six goals in the twelve games he played this season. Consequently, the board of directors is convinced that their star players must elevate their performances.
However, Nuno Espirito Santo still faces criticism from soccer enthusiasts due to his involvement with the squad. Criticism about the Portuguese manager got even worse after his team suffered a blow after Al Ittihad lost their most recent AFC Champions League fixture.
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Al Ittihad continues to struggle in all competitions
The Jeddah-based club currently holds the sixth position in the league, 11 points behind the league leader, Al Hilal. Nuno Santo’s men failed to heal their wounds following a shocking 2-0 defeat against Al Jawiya in the AFC Champions League. The home side aced over Al Ittihad in the second half of the match, increasing pressure on the Portuguese coach after such disappointing results.
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The Tigers are still leading Group C with nine points from four games. However, it’s a matter of time to be dethroned from their position if they fail to find a solution to their underwhelming performances. Do you think Al Ittihad will sack Nuno Espirito Santos this season? Comment below and let us know.
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