Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — Al-Ittihad Saudi Club has officially announced the signing of French coach Laurent Blanc to lead the team in the upcoming season. The announcement was made through an email sent to the club's official members on Saturday.

The news of the signing was quickly followed by an official announcement on the club's social media accounts.

The email did not disclose details about Blanc's contract terms, but sources familiar with the matter indicated that the contract is for two seasons with an option for a third.

According to sources, Blanc has already begun his duties with the team starting from the training camp in Spain, which commenced on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad Saudi Club has scheduled a friendly match against Spanish side Elche as part of their preparations ahead of the new season. The match will take place on July 20, marking the first of several preparatory matches against Real Betis and Sevilla from Spain, as well as Italy's Inter Milan. The club is expected to announce further preparatory matches in the coming days.