Portuguese coach Sergio Conceicao, manager of the first football team at Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ittihad Club, confirmed that his return to the Italian League (Serie A) is an inevitable step in his coaching future, while stressing his full commitment to his current project with Al-Ittihad, which he chose based on specific ambitions and challenges.
Why did Conceição prefer Al-Ittihad over European offers?
In a lengthy interview with the La Gazzetta dello Sport , Conceição explained that his decision to come to Saudi Arabia was not a coincidence, but rather the result of careful consideration. Despite receiving offers from prestigious European clubs, most notably his former club Lazio, he did not find in those offers the comprehensive project he was looking for at that time. He indicated that Al-Ittihad presented him with a vision that aligned with his passion, especially given the tremendous development of the Saudi Professional League (the Roshan League) and its growing competitiveness with the presence of a host of world-class players.
The context of sports transformation in Saudi Arabia
Al-Ittihad's signing of a coach of Conceição's caliber is part of the significant sporting development underway in the Kingdom, where Saudi clubs have become a magnet for top names in the world of coaching and playing. The Saudi league is no longer just a retirement destination, but a highly competitive arena demanding both technical and physical prowess, a point emphasized by the Portuguese coach himself, who highlighted the diverse cultural and sporting challenges that contribute to honing his professional expertise.
Memories of Calcio and the golden era
Returning to Italy, Conceição boasts a rich history in Italian football as a player, having worn the jerseys of major clubs such as Lazio, Parma, and Inter Milan. His time with Lazio stands out, as he was part of the "Eagles'" golden generation that achieved the historic league and cup double in 2000, in addition to the European Super Cup in 1999. This historical background makes his statement, "I know very well that I will return to Italy one day," a promise built on a deep emotional connection with Italian fans.
Personal tragedies shaped the character of "The General"
On the human side, Conceição revealed the wounds that shaped his tough and resilient character. He spoke emotionally about losing his father at the age of sixteen in a motorcycle accident, followed just two years later by his mother's illness, and then the death of his brother. He emphasized that faith and prayer were the refuge that gave him the strength to persevere, noting that these harsh experiences made him realize that no amount of professional success could ever fill the void left by his parents.
Tactical discipline and his relationship with Simone Inzaghi
Regarding his coaching philosophy, Conceição emphasized that discipline is a red line that cannot be crossed, whether it concerns training schedules or players' ideal weight, stressing that everyone is equal before the rules. He also spoke about his relationship with his former teammate Simone Inzaghi (the current Inter Milan coach), describing him as a great coach and reminiscing about winning the Scudetto together with Lazio, reflecting the deep bond he shares with his generation of players.
Conceição concluded his remarks with his favorite quote that sums up his career: “Great achievements cannot be accomplished in calm waters… Only storms make heroes,” in a clear reference to his enduring passion for difficult challenges, whether in Jeddah or in his future destinations.
