Laurent Blanc has left Al Ittihad, placing the Saudi Pro League giants in the firing line for his successor. A contender is no stranger to Barcelona fans: ex-coach Xavi Hernández, who was also one of the club’s greatest midfielders. Here is an analysis of the situation in Jeddah and the potential contenders for the role.
Al Ittihad act swiftly after Laurent Blanc’s dismissal
Al Ittihad ended Laurent Blanc’s contract after the 2-0 loss to Al Nassr and called for “technical staff more in line with the ambitions of the club”. Just three weeks into the 2025-26 season, Blanc had only a glimmer of hope with the team sitting mid-table, but two successive league defeats and a defeat in the Saudi Super Cup semi-final to Al Nassr spelled the end of his time in charge.Assistant coach Hassan Khalifa will serve as interim manager until a successor is formally appointed.That move surprised many onlookers, given that Blanc had just guided the team to a domestic double last season, delivering a league and King’s Cup success, but form and expectations changed quickly. Several names have now entered the frame, with the club’s hierarchy wanting a high-profile appointment able to match the ambition of the club.Also Read: Former Manchester United star Laurent Blanc asked to leave after Al-Ittihad’s defeat in Saudi Pro League
Xavi Hernández leads the list of candidates
Some of the biggest names repeatedly linked with a return are none other than former Barcelona icon and now coach Xavi Hernández. Al Ittihad has already reportedly reached out to him as they consider their options. However, Xavi’s camp appears cautious. Now, the Spaniard has made it pretty clear that a transfer to Saudi Arabia is not his main focus; instead, he prefers a long-term challenge in Europe.And even though Xavi was never entirely enthusiastic about the idea, neither would have any doubts that a man with such a CV would be a strong candidate. His reputation for possession-based football, combined with his past Gulf region managerial experience at Al Sadd and stature in world football, makes him appealing to Al Ittihad’s brass.Luciano Spalletti and Sérgio Conceição are also names that have been mentioned. They both possess solid tactical profiles and could provide instant results, something the club is in urgent need of.
What comes next for Al Ittihad?
Xavi Hernández is among the prime candidates at this stage, but his own concerns about heading to Saudi Arabia render this situation a bit murky for the moment. Ultimately, it is likely to come down to who can commit the quickest and best fit what Al Ittihad wants in a manager, someone who can deliver immediate success while guiding the club toward the future.Until then, Hassan Khalifa stays, but the club’s numerous passionate support base will yearn for a marquee appointment that illustrates Al Ittihad’s ambitions in the domestic and continental landscape.
