Simone Inzaghi has officially ended his four-year tenure as Inter head coach, opting to accept a lucrative offer from Saudi giants Al Hilal. The Italian tactician informed club officials of his decision during a meeting with Inter CEO Giuseppe Marotta earlier today. The departure marks the end of a successful chapter in which Inzaghi guided Inter to six major trophies, including the coveted Scudetto della Seconda Stella.
Al Hilal are reportedly offering Inzaghi a two-year contract worth €25 million net per season, making him one of the highest-paid managers in world football. Negotiations have rapidly advanced over the past days, with Al Hilal emissaries flying into Milan to finalise the deal following Inzaghi’s confirmation to leave Inter.
In a heartfelt farewell message published on Inter’s official channels, Inzaghi expressed deep gratitude to the club, its fans, and his players. “Every day for four years, Inter was my first and last thought. We achieved great things together — from domestic titles to a memorable Champions League run. I leave with pride and immense gratitude,” said the coach, who now becomes part of Inter’s managerial elite alongside Helenio Herrera, Giovanni Trapattoni, Roberto Mancini and José Mourinho.
President Steven Zhang paid tribute to Inzaghi, calling his arrival at Inter “a gift from God,” and praising the coach’s integrity, kindness and resilience during challenging times. “You have been a blessing to the club and to me personally. The joy, the trophies, and the friendship will never be forgotten,” Zhang wrote in an emotional statement.
Inter, meanwhile, have already shifted focus to the future. With the FIFA Club World Cup just 10 days away in the United States, the Nerazzurri are moving swiftly to appoint a new head coach. Cesc Fàbregas, currently managing Como, has emerged as the leading candidate. Talks are at an advanced stage and could be concluded within the next 48 hours. Other names linked include Roberto De Zerbi, Cristian Chivu, and Patrick Vieira, but sources close to the club indicate that Fàbregas is now firmly in pole position.
The 38-year-old Spaniard is seen as one of the most promising young coaches in Europe, having guided Como to Serie A promotion with an attacking, modern style of play. His reputation, coupled with his understanding of Italian football and leadership qualities, makes him a strong fit for Inter’s ambitions.
As Inzaghi prepares for a new chapter in Saudi Arabia, Inter’s next managerial appointment could shape the club’s trajectory for years to come. A decision is expected imminently.
