Former Premier League manager’s termination amid verbal clash with Karim Benzema

Following a spectacular summer of transfers that saw Karim Benzema move to their club, another former Premier League manager who relocated to Saudi Arabia has lost his position.

Chirag

November 8, 2023

Ex Premier League Manager Santos Sacked After Verbal Clash With Karim Benzema — Images via Getty Images

Nuno Espirito Santo, the former manager of Tottenham Hotspur, has been relieved of his duties as the head coach of Al-Ittihad.

This Portuguese manager took the helm of the Saudi Pro League powerhouse in the summer of 2022. His departure from the club follows a disappointing 2-0 loss to the Iraqi team Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya in the Asian Champions League.

It is noteworthy that Al-Ittihad currently occupies a modest sixth position in the league standings. This underwhelming performance is surprising, considering their high-profile signings, such as N’Golo Kante and the legendary Real Madrid star, Karim Benzema. However, it appears that a dispute with the latter played a pivotal role in his dismissal.

According to Revelo, the defeat in the Asian Champions League triggered a heated argument between Santo and the Ballon d’Or winner. The report suggests that they exchanged insults after the final whistle.

In an official statement, the Saudi club announced, “the club has announced the end of its contract with Portuguese coach Nuno Espirito Santo. This decision comes after a comprehensive technical evaluation of the past phase during which he was in charge of coaching the first football team.”

The club has also confirmed that his assistant coach, Hassan Khalifa, will take charge temporarily while they search for a replacement. Furthermore, reports indicate that the relationship between Santo and Benzema had deteriorated to an irreparable point.

Rumours have emerged that Laurent Blanc, the former manager of Paris Saint-Germain, who was recently dismissed by Lyon, is among the candidates for the vacant position. In addition to Benzema and Kante, Al-Ittihad made a significant signing by acquiring Liverpool midfielder Fabinho for approximately £40 million.

They also secured the services of Portuguese winger Jota from the Scottish giants. However, these investments have yet to yield significant dividends, as Al-Ittihad has failed to secure a victory in their last five matches. Their most recent win dates back to September 21 when they defeated Al Fateh 2-1 at home.