Marcello Gallardo is Making His Mark at Al-Ittihad as He Manages a Turnaround in Form in the Saudi Pro League
Saudi Pro League defending champions were forced into a change of manager in the middle of the season, firing Nuno Espirito Santo.
The sacking of Santo was caused by a combination of a poor run of form with Al-Ittihad off pace in defending the title they won last season and issues with the dressing room, with reports indicating that the manager had fallen out with some players, including marquee summer signing Karim Benzema.
Marcello Gallardo was jettisoned into Al-Ittihad to salvage the season and heal wounds in the dressing room. The new gaffer has shown significant positive signs of a positive impact on Al-Ittihad, as evidenced by their form and turnaround of results.
The Argentine tactician has overseen two wins and a draw since replacing Espirito Santo. Early signs reveal a notable change in Al-Ittihad as the defending champions look to find their footing in the league and the AFC Champions League.
Crucially for Al-Ittihad, spirits are turning around just in time to have a positive outlook to the start of the Club World Cup.
Gallardo will have to contend with expectations among the Al-Ittihad and Saudi faithful, who expect Al-Ittihad to at least emulate Al-Hilal’s achievements of reaching the final in 2022, eventually losing 5-3 to Real Madrid.
