Is Al-Hilal Moving On from Coach Jorge Jesus?
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Synopsis
In a surprising move, Al-Hilal has parted ways with manager Jorge Jesus just days after a disappointing defeat in the Asian Champions League. With an interim coach now at the helm, the club faces crucial matches ahead in the Saudi Pro League and an upcoming Club World Cup. What does this mean for Al-Hilal's ambitions?
Key Takeaways
- Al-Hilal has terminated the contract with Jorge Jesus.
- Mohammed Al-Shalhoub appointed as interim head coach.
- The club is preparing for the Club World Cup.
- Al-Hilal is currently second in the Saudi Pro League standings.
- Next match against Al-Raed on May 7.
Riyadh, May 3 (NationPress) The Saudi Pro League team Al-Hilal has officially announced the termination of their relationship with Portuguese manager Jorge Jesus on Saturday.
This decision follows shortly after Al-Hilal's exit from the Asian Champions League Elite semifinals, where they suffered a 3-1 defeat against Al-Ahli.
With just five matches remaining in the league season, Al-Hilal is currently in second place, trailing leaders Al-Ittihad by six points. The club is also preparing for the upcoming expanded Club World Cup, which will take place in the United States this June and July.
In a statement released on X, Al-Hilal remarked, "The Board of Directors of Al-Hilal Club Company has mutually agreed with Jorge Jesus to end their contractual relationship."
The statement continued, "The Board expressed its gratitude for the contributions made by the technical staff since last season."
In light of this change, the club has appointed Mohammed Al-Shalhoub as the interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
"The Board has decided to appoint coach Mohammed Al-Shalhoub to lead the first team in the Saudi League," the club added.
Al-Shalhoub is a legendary figure at Al-Hilal, having spent his entire professional career there as an attacking midfielder. He is celebrated as one of the sport's most decorated players, having won 34 major titles—33 with Al-Hilal and one with the Saudi national team.
Currently, Al-Ittihad leads the league standings with 68 points from 29 matches, while Al-Hilal holds second place with 62 points from the same number of games. Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr is in third place with 60 points.
Al-Hilal's next match is scheduled against Al-Raed on May 7, followed by fixtures against Al-Orobah, Al Fateh, Al-Wehda, and Al-Qadisiyah, concluding the season on May 26.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the significance of Al-Hilal's decision to part ways with Jorge Jesus. This move reflects the club's ambition to maintain competitive performance in both the Saudi Pro League and the upcoming Club World Cup. With the appointment of interim coach Mohammed Al-Shalhoub, the club aims for a swift turnaround to secure their position in the league and international competitions.
NationPress
03/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Al-Hilal part ways with Jorge Jesus?
Al-Hilal parted ways with Jorge Jesus following a disappointing exit from the Asian Champions League and to seek a fresh direction as they approach the end of the season.
Who is the new interim coach for Al-Hilal?
The club has appointed Mohammed Al-Shalhoub as the interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
What is Al-Hilal's current standing in the league?
Al-Hilal is currently in second place in the Saudi Pro League, six points behind leaders Al-Ittihad.
When is Al-Hilal's next match?
Al-Hilal's next match is scheduled against Al-Raed on May 7.
What are Al-Hilal's ambitions for the remainder of the season?
Al-Hilal aims to secure a strong finish in the league and perform well in the upcoming Club World Cup.
