Al Hilal Hopeful of Naming Simone Inzaghi as New Coach

Al Hilal, a top team in the Saudi Pro League, believe they will sign Simone Inzaghi as their new head coach. They want him ready before the new season and the FIFA Club World Cup.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Al Hilal have been talking with Inter Milan’s Manager, Simone Inzaghi, for a while. They now feel they are close to an agreement for him to take over as coach. The Saudi team expects a decision soon, as he is set to meet with Inter’s management on Tuesday, June 3. This meeting is set to determine the future of Inzaghi, who has struggled since Inter’s 5-0 loss to PSG in the UEFA Champions League final.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

If Inzaghi moves to Al Hilal, it would be huge for the Saudi Pro League. The Italian impressed at Inter Milan during his four-year spell, winning the Serie A title and reaching two Champions League finals. His potential departure comes amid talks of a potential €50 million two-year contract offer from Al Hilal. His wages work out at €30 million per year, which would make him one of the best-paid coaches in world football for the next two years, a figure that Inter cannot match.

Inter Milan’s management, led by President Beppe Marotta, still hope Inzaghi will extend his contract, which expires in 2026. However, they may not be able to provide the funds to sign players in the transfer window, which Inzaghi is reportedly seeking after this season’s failings.

AMBITIOUS TRANSFER PLANS

Beyond bringing Inzaghi as their new coach, Al Hilal are looking to sign at least three big-name players in the current transfer window. The likes of Bruno Fernandes, who currently plays for Manchester United, is reported to be one of the Saudi club’s primary targets. Al Hilal wish to strengthen substantially ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup next month. These ambitious transfer plans demonstrate Al Hilal’s determination to dominate world football.

WHAT NEXT FOR INZAGHI?

Inzaghi faces a big call ahead of his meeting with Inter’s chiefs on Tuesday. Premier League teams, including Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United, have shown interest in the boss. However, Al Hilal appear to be favourites thanks to their high wages. If Inzaghi does move to the Saudi Pro League side, his first challenge would be the FIFA Club World Cup, where Real Madrid are the favourites to win the tournament.

For Inter’s board, losing their successful coach would mean they would be forced into a managerial search ahead of the new season with no main target identified as yet. This decision could shape what happens to both clubs, with an important few weeks ahead for Inter and Al Hilal.