Jurgen Klopp recommended Jens Wissing for Al-Ittihad job, says former Al-Ahli player

Former Al-Ahli player Imad Al-Hosni has claimed that Germany head coach Jurgen Klopp recommended his compatriot Jens Wissing for the Al-Ittihad manager’s position.

Speaking to Qatari broadcaster beIN Sports, Al-Hosni said: “I heard that Jens Wissing came to Al-Ittihad on the recommendation of Jurgen Klopp.”

Wissing took charge of Al-Ittihad before the start of the current season, after an impressive half-season spell with former club Gamba Osaka in Japan. He guided Gamba Osaka to the AFC Champions League Two title, defeating Al-Nassr in the final.

Al-Hosni believes the German coach has quickly made an impression at his new club.

“This coach has ambition and desire, and he wants to create something with Al-Ittihad,” he said. “That is clear from the matches he has managed in the Roshn Saudi League.”

He added: “He is always keen to give instructions and move around off the pitch. His interventions are consistently positive for the players, as shown by the good results the team has achieved so far.”

Since arriving at Alinma Stadium, Wissing has led Al-Ittihad to five victories and two draws in the Roshn Saudi League, without suffering a defeat.

Those results have lifted Al-Ittihad to second place in the table with 17 points, one point behind leaders Al-Hilal.

The Jeddah club have also reached the round of 16 in the King’s Cup and progressed through the qualifying round of the AFC Champions League Elite to reach the league phase.

Al-Hosni said the appointment of Wissing had given Al-Ittihad a young German coach who had settled into the squad quickly.

“Al-Ittihad signed a young German coach, and he succeeded in entering the team’s atmosphere quickly,” he said. “The fans have taken to him, and it is clear that his instructions and influence have had a positive effect on the pitch.”

Al-Ittihad begin their AFC Champions League Elite league-stage campaign on Monday when they travel to Qatar to face Al-Shamal in the opening round.

The match will be played at Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor.