Al Ittihad have given their season fresh momentum after a convincing 4-1 victory over Al-Ettifaq in Matchday 10 of the Saudi Pro League, a result that silenced growing doubts about the club's title credentials. The win, secured through goals from George Ilenikhena, Houssem Aouar and a brace from Youssef En-Nesyri, lifted them to fourth place with 20 points from nine matches, three behind third-placed Al Nassr.

The result carries extra weight given the scrutiny surrounding coach Jens Fissing in recent weeks. Reports had raised questions about his future at the club after a difficult run that included defeats to Al Hilal in the league and an early exit from the AFC Champions League Elite against Shabab Al Ahli Dubai. Tuesday's performance offered a timely response to those doubts.

Off the pitch, the club has also been drawn into a public dispute involving former coach Sergio Conceicao, who made critical remarks about Saudi players and the league environment after his dismissal. Ittihad player Saad Al-Moussa pushed back publicly, describing Conceicao's approach as unethical and accusing him of avoiding the real reasons behind his failure at the club.

Looking ahead, Al Ittihad host Al Diriyah at King Abdullah Sports City on Friday in Matchday 11, a fixture they will enter with confidence restored and a point to prove in their pursuit of the leading pack.