Simone Inzaghi has furiously hit back at the criticism he has received for leaving Inter Milan to become the new manager at Saudi Pro League side, Al Hilal.
Why Did Simone Inzaghi Leave Inter Milan?
After a four-year spell as Inter manager between June 2021 and June 2025, Simone Inzaghi decided to part ways with the Italian giants to become head coach at Saudi Pro League side, Al Hilal.
This came after Inter’s Champions League final defeat to PSG and the manner in which the Italian side were beaten appeared to be the final straw for Inzaghi after failing to win the Serie A title, as the French side picked up a 5-0 victory in Munich – the biggest UCL final victory of all-time.
During his time in Milan, Inzaghi won a league title and two Coppa Italias, whilst also guiding his side to two Champions League finals in three years.
Inzaghi was in charge for 217 matches, winning 141, drawing 41 and losing 35, as he saw his side score 427 goals and concede just 192 across the four years.
Inter wasted no time in replacing their former boss, as Cristian Chivu took the reins in Milan and Serie A icon, Javier Zanetti, spoke about Chivu’s appointment – being very positive over his former teammate’s arrival.
Many wondered why the Italian would agree to a mutual termination of his deal in Milan, as it was set to expire in June 2026 and this confusion was amplified after Inzaghi agreed to manage Al Hilal.
This move was met with a lot of criticism as Inzaghi is regarded as one of the best coaches in Europe, but the former Inter manager hit back at these critics in a recent press conference before his sides’ Club World Cup cash against Real Madrid.
Inzaghi said: “I’ve listened to all the criticism, as often happened in the four years at Inter, but if this is the price to pay for my years in Milan, then I’ll pay it willingly.
“The criticisms I’m hearing are nothing compared to the good I’ve received from the Inter world, and I’m talking about fans, managers and players.
“I know I’ll miss everything about Inter, even the most unjust accusations. I had a really good time and I gave my all. Speaking about it with the club, and for the good of Inter, I think the separation was the right thing for everyone, even with a lot of pain.
“I accepted the challenge and stepped out of my comfort zone after several years at Inter. I want to change my way of thinking, my style of play and try new things. There was no other team I wanted to coach, so I chose Al-Hilal.”
How Much Does Simone Inzaghi Earn In Saudi Arabia?
Every time a big name from European soccer makes the switch to Saudi Arabia, the topic of money is instantly thrown around as Saudi Pro League teams have offered huge contracts in recent years.
The likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Sadio Mane and Riyad Mahrez are reportedly earning over $1 million per week and Inzaghi reaped the rewards after moving to the ever-evolving country.
After securing the role at Al Hilal, Inzaghi became the second-highest paid manager in the world according to reports, earning around $29m per year.
Only Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid is said to be earning more than the former Inter boss and Inzaghi will begin his rein as Al Hilal boss at the Club World Cup.
The Saudi Arabian side are huge outsiders to win the competition on the best offshore sportsbooks and will begin their run in the tournament against Real Madrid.
