BREAKING: Al Hilal Sack Coach Jorge Jesus Ahead of FIFA Club World Cup
The decision to part ways comes as a surprise, especially given Al Hilal’s strong domestic and continental performances under Jesus’ leadership.
Saudi giants Al Hilal have sacked head coach Jorge Jesus with immediate effect. Photo/Getty Images.
By Robert Assad
In a stunning move just days before the FIFA Club World Cup, Saudi giants Al Hilal have sacked head coach Jorge Jesus with immediate effect.
The Portuguese tactician has been dismissed following internal discussions by the club’s board, signaling a major shake-up at the top of the most successful club in Asia.
The decision to part ways comes as a surprise, especially given Al Hilal’s strong domestic and continental performances under Jesus’ leadership.
However, internal sources suggest tensions had been mounting in recent weeks, particularly over strategic direction and long-term planning.
With the high-stakes Club World Cup looming, the club decided a change was necessary to steer the team in a new direction.
Jorge Jesus, who previously managed European sides such as Benfica and Flamengo, returned to Al Hilal in 2023 for a second stint.
His tactical acumen and attacking philosophy had earned praise, but the pressure to deliver international silverware appears to have outweighed recent successes.
Adding further intrigue to the development, Jesus has reportedly been included on Brazil’s shortlist for the national team managerial position. This is, however, conditional on Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti turning down the offer.
While no formal approach has been confirmed, the timing of his dismissal could leave the door open for a return to international football.
Al Hilal, currently one of the most financially powerful clubs in the world thanks to Saudi Arabia’s major investment in sports, will now begin the urgent task of appointing a replacement. With the Club World Cup fast approaching, the club will need to act quickly to ensure stability and competitiveness on the global stage.
Fans have reacted with shock and disappointment on social media, with many questioning the timing of the board’s decision. Others, however, have speculated that the move was made to align with larger ambitions — potentially attracting a marquee manager to lead the club into a new era.
More updates are expected in the coming days as the club prepares for a critical tournament and a new chapter without Jorge Jesus at the helm.
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