Simone Inzaghi Departs Inter Milan Following Champions League Defeat, Joins Al-Hilal

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Simone Inzaghi has ended his tenure with Inter, the Champions League runners-up, as he prepares for a likely move to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League. Inter suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the European club football final last Saturday, marking the most decisive scoreline ever in such a final.

Inzaghi's time at Inter saw significant achievements, including one Serie A title, two Coppa Italia victories, and three Supercoppa Italiana wins. Despite reaching two Champions League finals under his leadership, Inter fell short both times, including a loss to Manchester City in 2023. His departure follows mutual consent with the club.

The season concluded on a disappointing note for Inter. They were eliminated from the Coppa Italia by Milan and narrowly missed out on the Serie A title, finishing just one point behind Napoli. These setbacks added to their struggles despite earlier hopes of achieving a treble.

After the Champions League final, Inter's president Giuseppe Marotta stated that Inzaghi's position was not under threat. However, discussions about his future were planned with the club's hierarchy. Reports later indicated Inzaghi was interested in moving to Saudi Arabia, with Al-Hilal seeking a high-profile coach for the Club World Cup.

On Tuesday, Inter announced Inzaghi's departure by mutual agreement. Marotta expressed gratitude on behalf of Oaktree and the entire club for Inzaghi's dedication and sincerity during their meeting. "Only when you have fought together every day to achieve success can you have an open and honest dialogue," Marotta said.

In a heartfelt message on Inter's website, Inzaghi reflected on his four-year journey with the club. He expressed gratitude towards everyone involved and highlighted their shared achievements. "The six trophies we won... are living proof of how much my work was supported," he stated.

Inzaghi's Legacy at Inter

Inzaghi leaves behind an impressive record at Inter with a 65% win ratio across all competitions since Serie A began in 1929-30. This surpasses previous coaches like Aldo Olivieri (63.2%), Antonio Conte (62.7%), Jose Mourinho (62%), and Luigi Simoni (61.6%).

Inter is now focused on finding a new coach before their Club World Cup campaign starts against Monterrey at the Rose Bowl on June 17. Meanwhile, Inzaghi will debut as Al-Hilal’s coach against Real Madrid in Group H at Hard Rock Stadium on June 18.

In his farewell message, Inzaghi acknowledged the unwavering support from Nerazzurri fans throughout his tenure. He cherished their shared experiences of triumphs and challenges alike: "I will never forget you," he concluded warmly.