Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has been named as a potential candidate for the vacant head coach role at Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad, according to reports from Saudi outlet Arriyadiyah.
The Jeddah-based club dismissed Laurent Blanc earlier this week and is now targeting a high-profile appointment. Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp is believed to be their top priority, though Emery has also been shortlisted alongside Xavi Hernández, Luciano Spalletti, and Sérgio Conceição.
Emery’s stock has risen sharply since taking charge at Villa, leading the club back into European competition and establishing them as a strong Premier League contender. His previous success with Sevilla, Villarreal and Paris Saint-Germain adds to his appeal for Al-Ittihad, who are keen to boost their global profile.
While it remains unclear whether Emery would consider leaving Villa Park for Saudi Arabia, his inclusion on the shortlist underlines the scale of the club’s ambition as they continue to chase some of football’s biggest managerial names.
