Portuguese coach Sérgio Conceição, manager of Al-Ittihad, confirmed the difficulty of the upcoming match against Al-Riyadh in the ninth round of the Roshn Saudi League, noting that the team is going through a sensitive phase following the international break.

Conceição explained that the break was important to correct certain aspects, but he emphasized that the absence of several players with their national teams would affect preparations, with the possibility of the team appearing differently after the December period is completed.

The coach pointed out that players Mamadou Doumbia, Fabinho, and Roger will be arriving soon, but he has not yet confirmed whether they will be relied upon. He also noted that the Riyadh team will show changes under the leadership of its new coach.

In response to critics of Karim Benzema's presence, Conceição confirmed that the player is a genuine asset to the team, as well as to Saudi and global football. He added that Benzema will be present and ready for the Riyadh match after the team chose to rest him during yesterday's training session.

The coach also addressed the defensive mistakes, explaining that the entire team is responsible for conceding goals, and that improving performance involves all lines, not just the defense, with attention given to every opportunity the opponent has.

In a message to Al-Ittihad fans, Conceição denied rumors that he requested changes to players during the winter transfer window, affirming that what is being reported in the media about transfers is not true, and that he has been committed to transparency with the club throughout his tenure.

It is noted that Al-Ittihad currently occupies eighth place in the Roshn Saudi League standings with 11 points, consisting of 3 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses. The team hopes to achieve a positive result against Al-Riyadh to continue competing.