Discover how Marcelo Gallardo is reshaping Al Ittihad’s style and tactics to redefine Saudi league football in 2025.

Al Ittihad’s Tactical Transformation under Gallardo

The appointment of Marcelo Gallardo at Al Ittihad marked more than just a managerial change — it initiated a total tactical shift for the club. Known for his high-intensity, possession-based philosophy at River Plate, Gallardo has brought fresh ideas to the Saudi Pro League, with the aim of evolving league Aw8 online casino Singapore in the region.

Al Ittihad, historically a powerhouse in Saudi Arabia, had already achieved domestic success in recent seasons. However, the club’s decision to bring in Gallardo indicates an ambition to raise its tactical ceiling and compete consistently in Asian and global competitions. In this in-depth look, we break down the transformation Al Ittihad is undergoing under Gallardo — from formations and key players to philosophy and long-term impact.

⚙️ From Pragmatism to Proactive Football

Under previous coaches, Al Ittihad often deployed a more reactive system: sitting deep, absorbing pressure, and relying on counterattacks. While this style brought results, it lacked the control and fluidity Gallardo is now emphasizing.

Gallardo’s Tactical Identity:

High pressing: Forces mistakes from opponents and regains possession quickly
Vertical passing: Rapid ball progression through central zones
Overlapping full-backs: Creating width to stretch opposition defenses
Midfield rotations: Encouraging positional interchange to dominate the center

This new identity is about dictating the game — not just reacting to it.

🧠 Gallardo’s Preferred Formation: The 4-3-1-2

At River Plate, Gallardo mastered the 4-3-1-2 — a narrow formation that relies heavily on tactical discipline and technical midfielders. At Al Ittihad, he’s adapted the system to suit the available players.

How It Works:

Defense: A back four with full-backs pushing high in possession
Midfield trio: One defensive pivot and two shuttlers to provide verticality
Number 10: A creative midfielder given the freedom to orchestrate attacks
Two strikers: Combining a target man with a mobile second forward

This shape allows for dynamic attacks while keeping numerical superiority in midfield.

🧩 Key Players Under Gallardo

The transformation has been made possible thanks to a balanced squad featuring experienced internationals and versatile local talent.

1. Karim Benzema – Forward

The French striker remains a pivotal figure, often playing as a deep-lying forward to link play. Under Gallardo, Benzema’s creativity is more pronounced, dropping into midfield to overload central zones.

2. N’Golo Kanté – Midfield Engine

A pressing monster, Kanté thrives in Gallardo’s high-intensity setup. His ability to win the ball and transition it quickly fits perfectly into the Argentine manager’s style.

3. Fabinho – Defensive Midfielder

As the holding midfielder, Fabinho anchors the side and allows the full-backs to bomb forward, knowing he can cover ground behind them.

4. Romarinho – Versatile Attacker

Romarinho’s flair and positional flexibility make him ideal as a second striker or wide forward. Gallardo has used him in multiple roles to exploit weaknesses in opposition defenses.

📊 Tactical Data & Performance Trends

Since Gallardo’s arrival:

Possession average has increased from 48% to over 60%
Pressing intensity (PPDA) has significantly improved, showing more aggression in winning back possession
Passing accuracy in the final third has increased, thanks to shorter, faster sequences

This data reflects a more proactive and refined approach to controlling games — a shift from efficiency to dominance.

🧬 Youth Integration and Squad Rotation

One of Gallardo’s long-term goals is sustainability. While star names remain vital, he’s been rotating younger players into the lineup to avoid overreliance on veterans.

Young talents emerging:

Abdullah Al-Ammar (Left-back): His overlaps have become a key part of attacking width
Saad Al-Muwallad (Winger): Direct, fast, and fearless — a game-changer off the bench
Turki Al-Ammar (Midfielder): Developing into a reliable rotational option in midfield

This mix of youth and experience offers balance and reduces fatigue risks in the demanding league schedule.

🏆 Competing in Asia: A Bigger Goal

While the Saudi Pro League remains the primary stage, Gallardo’s bigger objective is continental dominance. The AFC Champions League poses unique challenges, and Gallardo’s tactical maturity is seen as the missing piece in Al Ittihad’s push for long-awaited Asian success.

His experience in Copa Libertadores with River Plate — where he reached multiple finals and won titles — is invaluable. He understands knockout football and how to tactically outmaneuver elite teams across multiple legs.

📈 The Long-Term Vision

Marcelo Gallardo isn’t a short-term fix. His appointment suggests Al Ittihad is serious about building a footballing identity — one that can inspire other Saudi clubs and elevate the tactical level of the entire league.

Key strategic outcomes:

Developing a possession-based football culture
Bridging the gap with European-style football
Preparing Saudi players for international standards
Building a platform to attract future stars

💬 Tactical Verdict

Al Ittihad under Gallardo is a project in evolution — but already, we see glimpses of brilliance. The style is more assertive. The squad looks more balanced. The vision is longer-term.

For league football in Saudi Arabia, this tactical transformation is monumental. It signals that Saudi clubs are no longer just buyers of top talent—they are becoming tactical innovators and global competitors.

⚽ Final Words: Support the Future of League Football

Al Ittihad’s journey under Gallardo is just beginning, but it’s a blueprint for what league football in Saudi Arabia can become — tactical, ambitious, and globally respected.

If you’re a fan of football, now is the time to follow this journey, support your team, and witness how bold tactical changes can shape the future of the beautiful game. Al Ittihad is proving that strategy is as important as star power in modern football.