Inzaghi Dismisses Saudi Links Before UCL Final

Simone Inzaghi played down rumours of his departure from Inter Milan after the Champions League final as speculation mounts of a money-spinning move to Al-Hilal.

Widespread reports of interest in Inzaghi from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal emerged just as Inter prepare to face Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday, their second final of Europe’s top competition in three seasons.

But Inzaghi said that it was ‘mad’ to talk about his future ahead of the final, saying that he was “really happy” at Inter even with talk of a two-year deal with Al-Hilal worth 50 million euros.

“It’s the same thing every year, when I was at Lazio or since I’ve been here at Inter there are always requests in Italy and from abroad, but I think it would be mad to think about that.

“After the match we’ll sit down and talk just as we always have done in the last few years, with what’s best for Inter being the only goal.

“If we have all the pieces in the right place we’ll move forward together.”

Inzaghi admitted that he might have trouble sleeping in the lead up to the final in Munich as Inter risk finishing the season empty handed after being in contention for the Serie A, Champions League and Italian Cup treble.

Defending champions Inter ran Napoli all the way to the last day but came second in the title race, and city rivals AC Milan ended their domestic cup run at the semi-finals, leaving the Champions League Inzaghi’s only remaining chance for a trophy.

“Friday night won’t be a night like the others… the Champions League is the match that every coach wants to take part in but which doesn’t come around for everyone,” said Inzaghi.

“I didn’t manage to get there as a player but thanks to my squad we’ve managed to get there twice in three seasons.”

Inzaghi added that Lautaro Martinez will be fit for the final, with Benjamin Pavard and Piotr Zielinski still injury doubts.

France24.com