Ex-Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi shuts down rumours linking him with Italy job

Ex-Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi shuts down rumours linking him with Italy job

Al Hilal manager Simone Inzaghi has rubbished speculation about his long-term future at the Saudi Pro League (SPL) powerhouse.

The 50-year-old tactician only joined Al Hilal at the start of the 2025/26 season after leaving Inter Milan.

However, he has been linked with the vacant Italian national team job following the Gli Azzurri’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Rumours linking Inzaghi with the national team job come after a turbulent past few weeks that saw FIGC president Gabriele Gravina step down from his role.

However, Inzaghi has moved quickly to squash any rumours about an early exit from Al Hilal.

“My future? I’m staying at Al-Hilal,” Inzaghi said (via FCinter1908). “I’m doing my job to the best of my ability, and I’m putting my all into it.”

Inzaghi’s comments came after his side were eliminated from the Asian Champions League round of 16 by Qatari top-flight side Al-Sadd.

Both sides couldn’t be separated even after extra time, producing an enthralling six-goal classic in a 3-3 draw at Prince Abdullah al-Faisal Stadium.

Inzaghi’s side took the lead three times in the game but were repeatedly pegged back by Al Sadd, with former Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino netting the third equaliser for the visitors in the 70th minute.

Al Hilal were ultimately eliminated 4-2 on penalties, stretching their hunt for a record-extending fifth continental title for at least another season.

Despite the defeat, Inzaghi was full of praise for Al-Sadd, who are led by former Italy head coach Roberto Mancini.

“I was aiming to reach the quarterfinals, but luck wasn’t on our side,” Inzaghi said.

“We tried with all our might and created several chances. Al-Sadd held firm and scored three goals, but Al-Hilal were the stronger team and took the lead three times.”

Inzaghi won six major trophies during his four-year spell at Inter, including the Serie A title. He also led the Nerrazurri to the Champions League final in 2023.

The Italian head coach is now locked in a thrilling SPL title race along with Cristiano Ronaldo-led Al Nassr, who hold a five-point lead at the summit with six games left.