FridayOL

Just days after officially taking the reins at Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal, Simone Inzaghi has spoken candidly about his departure from Inter Milan. While the move has been confirmed and the excitement amongst Al-Hilal fans is palpable, Inzaghi insists he dedicated himself fully to his role at Inter before accepting the offer.

The transition has been swift, with Al-Hilal's CEO recently stating that the agreement had been finalized. However, Inzaghi’s comments, delivered after a recent Al-Hilal training session, emphasize the commitment he felt towards his former club. He asserted that he “gave everything” to Inter, a sentiment that resonates with fans who witnessed his tactical acumen and the team's successes under his leadership.

Inzaghi’s tenure at Inter was marked by a remarkable turnaround. After inheriting a team struggling to find its footing, he instilled a disciplined and attacking style of play that propelled them to Serie A glory in the 2020-21 season. He also led them to the Champions League final in 2023, a testament to his managerial abilities and the team’s unwavering belief in his vision. Although the final proved heartbreaking, the journey showcased the heights Inzaghi could take Inter.

The move to Al-Hilal represents a significant shift in Inzaghi’s career. The Saudi Pro League has seen a dramatic influx of talent this summer, with several high-profile players and managers joining the league, fueled by ambitious investment and a desire to elevate the profile of Saudi Arabian football. Inzaghi will be tasked with leading Al-Hilal, already a dominant force in Asian football, to even greater heights, both domestically and continentally.

While some Inter fans may feel a sense of disappointment at losing a manager who clearly held the club dear, Inzaghi’s words offer reassurance that his departure was not born out of a lack of dedication. He leaves behind a legacy of success and a team well-positioned for future triumphs. His arrival at Al-Hilal promises an exciting new chapter for both the club and the manager, and the football world will be watching closely to see how he adapts to his new surroundings and continues to shape the landscape of the game.

The timeline for the agreement, as highlighted by Al-Hilal's CEO, remains a point of discussion, but Inzaghi’s focus is firmly on the present and the challenges that lie ahead with his new team. He’s eager to get to work, build relationships with his players, and implement his tactical philosophy to bring success to Al-Hilal.