Simone Inzaghi named Al-Hilal Manager one day after Inter Milan exit
Simone Inzaghi has been officially appointed as the new head coach of Al-Hilal Football Club, less than 24 hours after parting ways with Italian giants Inter Milan. The 49-year-old Italian tactician has inked a two-year deal with the Saudi Pro League powerhouse, marking the next chapter in a career that has seen him rise to prominence in both Serie A and European competitions.
From Serie A Glory to Saudi Ambition
Inzaghi’s tenure at Inter Milan, which began in 2021, was defined by both domestic success and continental contention. He led the Nerazzurri to the 2023–24 Serie A title, adding two Coppa Italia trophies to the club’s cabinet and guiding them to the 2023 UEFA Champions League final, where they narrowly lost 1-0 to Manchester City.
However, his time at Inter came to an unceremonious end after a devastating 5-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the 2025 UEFA Champions League final, ending the club's campaign without silverware for the first time since the 2019–20 season.
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Just a day after confirming his departure, Al-Hilal swooped in with a lucrative offer that reportedly sees Inzaghi earn up to €30 million per season—making him one of the highest-paid coaches in world football.
Al-Hilal Saudi Football Club, based in Riyadh, is widely regarded as the most successful football club in Asia. Known for their passionate fanbase, regional dominance, and recent big-name signings, the Blue Waves continue to position themselves as an attractive destination for top-tier footballing talent.
The club, which clinched the Saudi Pro League title in the 2023–24 season under Portuguese manager Jorge Jesus, is now setting its sights on global silverware and long-term tactical stability.
Jesus was dismissed following Al-Hilal’s shock elimination in the Asian Champions League Elite semi-finals, opening the door for Inzaghi’s high-profile arrival.
A star-studded squad awaits Inzaghi
Inzaghi will inherit a formidable squad stacked with European talent, including:
- João Cancelo – Former Manchester City full-back
- Rúben Neves – Portugal international and ex-Wolves midfielder
- Aleksandar Mitrović – Prolific Serbian striker formerly of Fulham
However, Brazilian superstar Neymar, who joined Al-Hilal to much fanfare in 2023, departed the club in January 2025 by mutual consent after an injury-plagued spell, making just seven appearances in 18 months.
Recently, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes reportedly turned down a lucrative offer from Al-Hilal, stating his desire to "play at the highest possible level," underscoring the growing but still evolving perception of the Saudi Pro League among Europe’s elite.
Immediate Test: Club World Cup Clash vs Real Madrid
Inzaghi's first assignment comes swiftly and with high stakes. Al-Hilal are set to face Real Madrid in their opening match at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in Miami on June 18, a true baptism of fire for the Italian tactician.
Real Madrid, now under new management themselves with Xabi Alonso at the helm, will provide a stern challenge. The fixture is set to draw global attention, with fans eager to see how Inzaghi adapts his tactical philosophy to a team outside Europe for the first time in his coaching career.
A Defining Move in the Global Football Shift
Inzaghi’s appointment is yet another signal of the Saudi Pro League’s ambition to disrupt the football status quo. While the allure of European competitions remains strong, the financial muscle and strategic vision of Saudi clubs continue to reshape football's traditional power dynamics.
For Inzaghi, the move offers both redemption and reinvention—an opportunity to prove that his managerial credentials extend beyond Serie A and into the evolving world of global football.
About Al-Hilal FC:
Al-Hilal Saudi Football Club, based in Riyadh, is the most decorated football team in Asia. Established in 1957, the club has won over 65 official titles, including multiple Saudi Pro League championships and AFC Champions League titles. Al-Hilal is known for its passionate supporters and is a central figure in Saudi Arabia's sports development ambitions.
About Simone Inzaghi:
Simone Inzaghi is an Italian football manager and former striker, best known for his tactical adaptability and man-management. He began his managerial career with Lazio before joining Inter Milan, where he cemented his reputation as one of Europe’s elite coaches.
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