
Credit: Twitter
Nuno Espirito Santo, the new coach of Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad, has welcomed three-star signings to his squad. The Portuguese manager, who was appointed in July after being sacked by Premier League giants Tottenham Hotspur, has secured the services of the French duo of N'Golo Kante and Karim Benzema while Nuno also signed Portuguese youngster Jota.
Nuno, who hugged and welcomed the trio at their official presentation, said he was delighted to have such quality players in his team. He said he hoped they would help Al-Ittihad defend the league title and compete for continental glory.
Kante, the French midfielder, joined Al-Ittihad from Chelsea on a three-year deal worth €86 million. The 32-year-old, who won the Champions League and the World Cup with his previous clubs, said he was looking forward to a new challenge in Saudi Arabia.
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Benzema, the French striker, joined Al-Ittihad from Real Madrid on a two-year deal worth €200 million. The 35-year-old, who scored 354 goals in 648 games for the Spanish giants, said he was excited to play under Nuno and alongside his compatriot Kante.
Jota, the Portuguese forward, joined Al-Ittihad from Celtic on a four-year deal worth €25 million. The 24-year-old Jota helped Celtic to win two league titles during his time with the Scottish club, scoring 28 goals over a two-year spell in all competitions. The Portuguese has also scored four goals in his nine appearances in the European competitions.
Al-Ittihad finished in pole position in the Saudi Pro League last season, five points ahead of runners-up Cristiano Ronaldo-led Al-Nassr. The team has strengthened even more after these three huge signings, and going into the new season, they look like favourites to defend their title.