Conceição hints at Serie A return, casting doubt on Al-Ittihad future

Speculation over the future of Portuguese coach Sergio Conceiçao at Saudi club Al-Ittihad is intensifying, with growing reports linking him to a possible exit at the end of the current season. The uncertainty follows a period marked by inconsistent results and performances.

Al-Ittihad is navigating a complicated campaign on multiple fronts. The team has fallen out of title contention and failed to achieve the expected successes, despite significant squad reinforcements in recent transfer windows. This has placed the coaching staff under sustained pressure from both fans and the media.

Amid this atmosphere, Conceiçao spoke about his deep connection to Italy in remarks carried by the Italian newspaper *Repubblica*. He confirmed he still holds strong feelings for Italian football and his previous experience there.

"I feel great affection for Italy. I have many friends there, some of my children were born there, and I had a special experience in the Italian league when it was the strongest and most beautiful in the world," the Portuguese coach said.

He added that his time in Serie A greatly benefited him technically, explaining that working in the Italian league gave him significant experience that shaped his coaching personality and match management style.

The former AC Milan manager also revealed he has received calls from several Italian clubs recently, though he declined to name them. "I received calls from Italian clubs, but I will not mention their names," he stated.

Media reports indicate that Al-Ittihad's management is leaning toward parting ways with Conceiçao after the season ends and appointing a new head coach.