Simone Inzaghi’s Al-Hilal slump — five draws in seven matches and a fall to third in the Saudi Pro League — raises pressure on the coach. For punters, this increases value on manager-sacking markets and suggests caution on Al-Hilal to win upcoming games; consider backing rivals Al-Ahli/Al-Nassr for the title or staked draws/unders in Al-Hilal fixtures while uncertainty lingers.
Inzaghi’s Al-Hilal: From Dream Start to Growing Pressure
Simone Inzaghi arrived in Saudi Arabia as one of world football’s most in-demand coaches, reportedly on a €26m-per-season deal after consecutive Champions League finals with Inter Milan. Al-Hilal began the season convincingly, building a seven-point cushion atop the Saudi Pro League, but momentum has stalled dramatically in recent weeks.
Key Factors Behind the Decline
A January move to sign Karim Benzema — a transfer Inzaghi backed — has not produced the anticipated upturn in results. Al-Hilal have drawn five of their last seven matches, a run that has seen them slip to third and fall four points behind leaders Al-Ahli. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr also sit above them, tightening the title race.
Internal Disquiet and Fan Reaction
Club ownership is understood to be dissatisfied and supporters have begun openly calling for change. Sacking a high-earning manager would be a major financial decision, but the unfolding form and mounting pressure make that scenario plausible if results do not improve quickly.
A Familiar Collapse and the Psychological Edge
Inzaghi knows the pain of late-season downturns: he once lost a seven-point advantage in Serie A with Inter. That memory adds narrative weight as Al-Hilal now chase leaders in a league where rivals have heavyweight squads and high expectations.
Crucial Fixtures Ahead
Al-Hilal face Al-Shabab, who are currently mid-table, before switching focus to the Asian Champions League last-16 tie against Al-Saad, coached by former Italy teammate Roberto Mancini. Winning both matches would significantly ease the heat on Inzaghi; anything less will amplify scrutiny on his tenure.
Betting and Market Implications
Punters should monitor manager-sacking odds and title markets closely. Al-Hilal’s draw-heavy run makes short-term backing of draws or under goals in their matches a prudent play, while longer-term value may exist on Al-Ahli or Al-Nassr to capitalize if Al-Hilal’s slide continues.
Inter eyeing two Liverpool stars for 2026 summer transfer window
Keep stakes conservative until a clearer response from the team emerges.
Football Italia
