Vesing declines to discuss Diaby future after Al-Ittihad secure Asian Champions League spot

Al-Ittihad head coach Jens Vesing said his team fully deserved their place in the Asian Champions League Elite League after a 4-1 victory over UAE’s Al-Jazira, while declining to discuss the future of Moussa Diaby at the club.

The German coach praised his players’ performance, highlighting the challenges they faced. Speaking at the post-match press conference, he said: “Al-Ittihad deserved to advance after a match that posed special challenges for the players. I am very happy with the win, and we deserve to qualify.”

He added: “We knew the match would be difficult given the conditions, but we respected our opponents. I am proud of the team for the sacrifices the players made.”

Vesing continued: “I told the players we won in impressive fashion and that they deserve to play in the Asian Champions League Elite League, which is where they belong. Now they need to rest and prepare for the next match.”

Al-Ittihad scored four goals against Al-Jazira, including a brace from Dutch forward Steven Berghuis, to secure their spot in the tournament’s league stage.

Asked about Moussa Diaby, who has been linked with a move to Inter Milan, Vesing said only: “My full focus is on the matches. I don’t listen to the media. Moussa Diaby is a fantastic player, but right now we are thinking about the upcoming games.”

On transfers, the Al-Ittihad coach said: “The transfer window is important and we still have three weeks left, but my focus is on facing Al-Kholood in the league next Saturday.”