Simone Inzaghi has opened up about his motivation for leaving Inter Milan to become the new manager of Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. The Italian coach said he was ready to step out of his “comfort zone” after several successful years with Inter.
“I wanted to challenge myself and try something completely new,” Inzaghi explained at a press conference ahead of Al-Hilal`s Club World Cup match against Real Madrid. “This was an opportunity to change my way of thinking, adapt my style of play, and experience a different football culture. Al-Hilal was the only team I was interested in coaching at this point in my career.”
Inzaghi`s departure from Inter came shortly after the team`s 5-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final. His move to Al-Hilal has sparked some controversy, with the Saudi club`s CEO claiming an agreement was reached before the final, irritating Inter officials.
During his tenure at Inter, Inzaghi led the team to six trophies, including one Serie A title, two Coppa Italia victories, and three Supercoppa Italiana wins. The 49-year-old has signed a two-year contract with Al-Hilal as he embarks on this new chapter in his coaching career.
As Inzaghi prepares for his debut with Al-Hilal, his former club Inter has already begun a new era under coach Cristian Chivu. The Nerazzurri recently kicked off their 2025 Club World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Monterrey.