Just a day after officially parting ways with Inter Milan, Simone Inzaghi has been unveiled as the new head coach of Saudi Pro League powerhouse Al-Hilal. The 49-year-old Italian tactician signed a lucrative two-year deal in Paris, reportedly valued at €30 million annually, which positions him among the highest-earning football managers globally.
Inzaghi’s move to Saudi Arabia follows a bittersweet end to his successful tenure at Inter, where he guided the Nerazzurri to significant silverware over four seasons. His final match in charge—a crushing 5-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League final—marked Inter’s first trophyless season since 2019–20. Nevertheless, his record includes a Serie A title in 2023–24, two Coppa Italia victories, and three Italian Super Cup wins.
Al-Hilal’s Ambition Reflected in Appointment
Al-Hilal’s acquisition of Inzaghi underlines the Saudi club’s ambition to solidify its dominance not only domestically but also on the global stage. The Riyadh-based club, which boasts a record 19 Saudi league titles and four AFC Champions League crowns, parted ways with former coach Jorge Jesus after a semi-final exit in the Asian Champions League Elite competition last month.
The announcement of Inzaghi’s appointment comes as Al-Hilal prepares for a high-profile appearance at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. His managerial debut is set for June 18 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, where the Saudi champions will face Spanish giants Real Madrid. The appointment reflects a strategic shift toward experienced European leadership as the Saudi Pro League continues to attract top-tier footballing talent.
A Star-Studded Squad Awaits the Inzaghi
At Al-Hilal, Inzaghi will command a dressing room filled with global stars and familiar faces. Notably, he will reunite with Serbian midfielder Sergej Milinković-Savić, whom he previously managed during his time at Lazio. In addition, the squad features marquee names like Portuguese full-back João Cancelo, Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly, Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, and Portuguese midfielder Rúben Neves.
This elite lineup presents both an opportunity and a challenge for Inzaghi, who will be tasked with implementing a competitive tactical system capable of withstanding elite European sides in international competitions. The Club World Cup will serve as an early litmus test of his ability to integrate high-profile talents and deliver results on a global platform.
Inter Milan Begin Hunt for Successor
Meanwhile, Inzaghi’s departure has left Inter Milan in urgent search of a successor. The club’s top managerial target, Cesc Fàbregas, has reportedly turned down the role, opting to continue his managerial development with Serie A newcomers Como. Fàbregas, a former midfield maestro, has gained attention for his coaching potential but believes his current project requires further commitment.
Other names linked with the vacancy include former Brighton coach Roberto De Zerbi, current Inter youth coach Cristian Chivu, and ex-Arsenal and France midfielder Patrick Vieira. Inter’s next appointment will be crucial as the club looks to rebuild following a turbulent season and reestablish itself as a dominant force in both Serie A and European football.
A New Chapter in the Saudi Pro League’s Evolution
Inzaghi’s high-profile arrival is yet another signal of the Saudi Pro League’s strategic mission to attract top managerial and playing talent from Europe. His move follows a string of similar appointments and signings that have drawn global attention to the kingdom’s growing influence in world football.
As the Saudi league continues to evolve into a competitive and financially powerful destination, Inzaghi’s appointment adds prestige and experience to Al-Hilal’s already formidable setup. Whether he can translate his European success to the Middle Eastern stage will be closely watched by football fans and analysts worldwide.
