Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad are prioritizing the appointment of Medhi Benatia as their new football director, according to French publication AS. The Moroccan football administrator is set to replace outgoing football director Ramon Planes, who is poised to join a European project.
Benatia, who currently holds the position of football director at French club Olympique de Marseille, has been approached by Al Ittihad to take on the role. The 36-year-old has been at OM since 2020 and has played a key role in shaping the club’s football strategy.
Key Moments
Benatia’s potential move to Al Ittihad has sent shockwaves through the football community, with many speculating about the reasons behind his departure from OM. Speaking to AS, a source close to the Moroccan administrator revealed that he has been ‘approached by several clubs in recent months, but Al Ittihad’s offer was the most enticing.’
‘Benatia is a highly respected figure in football, and his appointment would be a significant coup for Al Ittihad,’ the source added. ‘He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table, and his ability to identify and develop young talent is second to none.’
Reaction
The news of Benatia’s potential departure from OM has been met with disappointment from the club’s fans, who have taken to social media to express their sadness at the prospect of losing their football director. However, OM’s president, Jacques-Henri Eyraud, remains tight-lipped about the situation, stating that ‘we will not comment on speculation about Benatia’s future.’
In a statement, Eyraud added that ‘we are focused on the present and the future, and we will not be distracted by speculation about our football director’s potential departure.’
What it means
Benatia’s potential move to Al Ittihad could have significant implications for OM, who are currently struggling to find consistency in their performances. The club’s fans are growing increasingly frustrated with the team’s inability to break into the top four, and Benatia’s departure could be the final straw.
Al Ittihad, on the other hand, are looking to build on their recent success, having won the Saudi Pro League title last season. The appointment of Benatia would be a significant boost to the club’s chances of competing in the Champions League, and could potentially attract top talent to the Saudi Arabian club.
Up next
OM face a crucial encounter against Nice on May 21, with the club’s fans hoping that their team can finally break their winless streak. Meanwhile, Al Ittihad travel to face Al Nassr on May 25, in a highly anticipated clash that could have significant implications for the Saudi Pro League title.
References
- AS
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