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Jorge Jesus is no longer the coach of Al Hilal. The Saudi club and Portuguese manager decided to part ways immediately. This ends Jesus’s second time with the club during a challenging time in the season.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Al Hilal announced late on Friday that Jorge Jesus’s contract was ending by mutual agreement. This happened after a disappointing exit from the AFC Champions League semi-final, where Al Hilal lost 3-1 to Al-Ahli in April. Jesus had a great first season, setting a world record with 34 straight wins and winning the league, King’s Cup, and Super Cup. But the club’s failure in Asia led to this quick decision. Mohammed Al-Shalhoub is the interim coach for the rest of the season.
HOW THIS AFFECTS AL HILAL
When Jesus left, Al Hilal were second in the Saudi Pro League, six points behind leaders Al-Ittihad, with several games left to play. Jesus had an impressive record of 100 wins, 18 draws, and 11 losses in all competitions over two periods. His tactics helped the team win several domestic trophies. However, not winning the AFC Champions League was a major setback to the club’s hopes in Asia.
Al Hilal’s next league match is crucial, as they try to close the gap and challenge for the title. They are close to Al-Ittihad in the standings, while the nearest challengers below them are several points behind.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR BOTH PARTIES?
With Jesus gone, Al Hilal start searching for a new permanent manager. Former Barcelona boss Xavi is reportedly one of the candidates for the job. For Jorge Jesus, his name has come up in talks for the Brazil national team’s coaching vacancy, suggesting he may not be without a job for long.
Al Hilal, with Al-Shalhoub as the interim coach, need to focus on their remaining league fixtures and upcoming domestic cup matches. They will hope to finish the season strongly despite recent challenges.
