Antonio Conte rules out move to Saudi Pro League this season amid Al Ahli interest

Antonio Conte will not consider a move to the Roshn Saudi League this season, dealing a blow to Al Ahli Saudi’s hopes of appointing him as their next manager.

The Italian has been linked with taking charge of the club as pressure grows on the administration to make a change in the technical staff. Al Ahli Saudi’s recent results and performances have come under scrutiny during Marino Pusic’s tenure, prompting the club to assess possible alternatives.

Conte was among the candidates being considered as a potential successor to Pusic, alongside Nuno Santo. However, a statement from the Italian manager’s representative suggests that Al Ahli Saudi’s preferred target is not currently available.

Federico Pastorello, Conte’s agent, said a move to the Roshn Saudi League during the current campaign was not being considered.

“The option of moving to the Roshn Saudi League this season is not on the table,” Pastorello told Saudi newspaper Al-Midan. “It could become possible in other seasons, but it is not among Conte’s options at present.”

Pastorello also confirmed that Conte has received more than one offer from European clubs. The manager has yet to reach a final decision, though his situation could point towards him remaining in Europe for the next stage of his career.

Al Ahli Saudi face financial obstacle

The club’s managerial uncertainty is not limited to finding a replacement. Any decision to dismiss Pusic would also carry a significant financial cost, with Al Ahli Saudi needing to provide about €7.5m to cover the remaining commitments in his contract.

That financial obligation adds another complication to the club’s efforts to alter its coaching set-up. The administration must weigh the cost of ending Pusic’s contract against the need to respond to the team’s disappointing results and performances.

As a result, Al Ahli Saudi’s chances of appointing Conte during the current season appear limited. The Italian’s position has ruled out the move for now, while the financial terms surrounding Pusic’s potential dismissal create an additional barrier.

Pressure from supporters for a change in the coaching staff continues as the club considers its next steps. Alongside Conte and Nuno Santo, the administration has been reviewing its options for the future of the technical team, but no final change has been confirmed.