Jurgen Klopp ‘leading contender’ to replace Man Utd legend who was sacked FOUR games into new season by Saudi chiefs

JURGEN KLOPP has emerged as the leading contender to replace Laurent Blanc at Al Ittihad.

The Manchester United legend was brutally sacked just four games into the new season.

Reuters

Jurgen built a massive reputation because of the work he did as Liverpool boss[/caption]

Jean Catuffe/Getty Images

Despite guiding the club to a domestic double last year, Blanc was dismissed after a 2-0 defeat to rivals Al Nassr in the Saudi Clasico, leaving the Tigers three points adrift of the league leaders.

Blanc’s surprise departure came as a result of disappointing early season results, despite his success in securing the Saudi Pro League title and King’s Cup in his first season in charge.

The loss to Al Nassr proved to be the final straw for the club’s hierarchy, prompting the swift decision to part ways with the French coach who spent two seasons at Old Trafford and won the Premier League title.

With Blanc now out the door, Al Ittihad chiefs are reportedly keen on bringing in Klopp to take over.

According to Saudi-based arriyadiyah.com, The German tactician, who has built a formidable reputation with Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool, is said to be the club’s top choice to take the team forward.

Klopp’s high-energy, attacking style and proven ability to manage star players make him an ideal candidate to lead a squad that boasts superstars such as Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante.

The 58-year-old’s pedigree in European football could be just what Al Ittihad needs to push for greater success both domestically and internationally.

While Klopp remains the favourite, other names have also been floated as potential replacements.

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Spanish coach Xavi Hernandez, who has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League before, as well as Italian manager Luciano Spalletti and Portuguese tactician Sergio Conceicao, have all been mentioned.

Former Villarreal boss Unai Emery is also among the names reportedly being considered for the job.

However, Klopp’s experience in managing top-tier teams and his ability to get the best out of world-class players make him the standout choice.

The timing of Blanc’s exit leaves little room for error and Al Ittihad’s next managerial appointment is crucial to the club’s immediate future.

With such high-profile signings already in place, the pressure will be on the new manager to deliver silverware and take the team to new heights.