Simone Inzaghi has denied losing focus at Inter after Al-Hilal CEO claimed he agreed to join the Saudi club before Champions League final.

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• Al-Hilal revealed Inzaghi agreed move before UCL final
• Ex-Inter boss says criticism doesn’t reflect support he received
• Now preparing for CWC opener against Real Madrid

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Speaking ahead of Al-Hilal’s Club World Cup opener against Real Madrid, Inzaghi addressed the recent revelation that he had already agreed to join the Saudi Arabian side before Inter’s Champions League final defeat. Al-Hilal’s CEO publicly stated that terms were settled in advance, which has led to heavy backlash from Inter fans questioning Inzaghi’s commitment.

  Inzaghi, however, brushed off the criticism, saying he will always cherish the support and love he received from Inter fans and the club despite the "unjust accusation."

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Inzaghi’s time at Inter was a rollercoaster. He delivered domestic success, including a Serie A title, two Coppa Italia titles, and three Supercoppa Italiana, but fell short on the European stage. The embarrassing 5-0 defeat in the Champions League final left a sour ending to what many thought could have been a long-term project.

  There were even reports of a contract extension days after the European loss, but the Italian agreed to join Al-Hilal. The offer from Riyadh came with a two-year deal worth a reported €26 million per season, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in world football.

• WHAT SIMONE INZAGHI SAID

  Inzaghi made it clear that the recent criticism hasn't overshadowed the support he received during his time at Inter, saying: "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 – he continued -. 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."

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  WHAT NEXT FOR SIMONE INZAGHI?

  Inzaghi is set for his first major test with the Saudi giants as they face Real Madrid in their Club World Cup opener on Wednesday. Notably, Al-Hilal finished eight points behind Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad last season, leading to the sacking of Jorge Jesus and the appointment of Inzaghi as their new head coach.

Tags: Futebol
Category: News