By Sheharyar 
In Taif, the 2023 King Salman Club Cup will witness the long-awaited return of Al-Ittihad to competitive action after their triumph in the Saudi Pro League in May. On Thursday, they will clash with Esperance de Tunis in their opening Group A encounter.
Anticipating the challenging match, Al-Ittihad coach Nuno Espirito Santo acknowledged that the team’s roster was not yet complete, with pending arrivals of key players. He sensed the enthusiasm among Al-Ittihad fans for this tournament, eager for more victories and titles following their recent Saudi Professional League win. To make the fans happy, the team was ready to exert their full force and dedication.
During their training camp in Taif over the past few weeks, the club had been preparing to shine gloriously. The good news was that recently signed international stars like Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanti, and Jota were available for selection, adding strength to the squad.
Santo had thoroughly analyzed Esperance’s recent matches, understanding their weaknesses and strengths, which would contribute to a challenging confrontation.
Romarino, the striker for Al-Ittihad, expressed confidence in the team’s potential, emphasizing the boost brought by the new players and their chance to compete fiercely for the coveted cup.
On the Tunisian side, head coach Moine Chaabani acknowledged the less-than-ideal timing of the Arab Club Champions Cup, coinciding with a transitional period for his team. As key players left and new signings joined during the summer transfer window, the team was facing adjustments. However, Chaabani saw the championship as a favorable opportunity for rejuvenation and a chance for the squad to connect with prominent stars.
Esperance had a remarkable track record in the tournament, having won it three times and finished as runners-up twice, motivating newer and younger players to step up and gain valuable experience.
Chaabani recognized Al-Ittihad’s strength, boasting exceptional talents like Benzema and Kanti, but he was determined to guide his team to a victorious outcome.
At King Fahd Stadium in Taif, the game would commence at 10 p.m. local time. Al-Ittihad had come close to clinching the title in the previous Arab Club Champions Cup in 2020, narrowly losing 4-3 on penalties to Moroccan side Raja Club Athletic of Casablanca after the match ended in a thrilling 4-4 draw.