Following a crazy offseason, it’s time to get to work for Al-Ittihad. With stellar signings Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante on board, the Saudi Arabian club officially started its pre-season on Monday in Taif ahead of a challenging campaign. Apart from the aforementioned stars, the three Brazilians on the squad also showed up.
We are talking about veteran goalkeeper Marcelo Grohe, midfielder Igor Coronado and striker Romarinho. The team underwent medical examinations and later had its first training session, with the sights set on a demanding season which will include the FIFA Club World Cup.
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A challenging year for the Brazilians at Al-Ittihad
The arrivals of Benzema, Kante or Jota – who joined the club for €25 million from Celtic – reflect how serious Al-Ittihad are about succeeding. Even though the team already won the league title last season, it’s determined to continue chasing success in every competition.
📸| يومنا الأول في الطائف #النمور_في_الطائف pic.twitter.com/Afw8guPXZH
— نادي الاتحاد السعودي (@ittihad) July 10, 2023
The first challenge for the Saudi Arabian outfit will be the Arab Cup Champions Cup, which will get underway on July 27. Al-Ittihad were drawn against Al-Shorta, Sxafien and Tunis in Group A. Later in the season, they will represent the host country at the Club World Cup.
