Simone Inzaghi has confirmed that Gabriel Martinelli is set to play for Al Hilal, with the Saudi Pro League club expected to formally announce the Brazilian winger’s arrival within hours.
Martinelli arrived in Riyadh on Tuesday evening, shortly before Al Hilal’s 3-0 victory over Al Ahli in a postponed fixture from the third round of the Saudi Pro League. Speaking after the match, Inzaghi said the former Arsenal player would feature in upcoming games, effectively confirming that the transfer has been completed before the official announcement.
“Regarding Martinelli, we will see him playing in the upcoming matches,” said Inzaghi.
Previous reports have valued the deal at about 65m euros. Al Hilal are expected to announce the signing shortly, while the Saudi transfer window remains open until 12 October. That deadline comes after the major European leagues closed their windows at the end of Tuesday.
Inzaghi was pleased with his side’s display against Al Ahli and praised each member of the squad after Al Hilal moved to the top of the league table.
“Of course, I am very happy with the level and the technical performance the team showed, and I congratulate all the players, one by one, for this effort,” he said.
The Italian also provided updates on several injury concerns. Salem Al-Dawsari will need more time before returning to action, while Ali Lajami’s injury will be assessed in detail after the match. Theo Hernandez, meanwhile, experienced some physical discomfort and will also undergo a medical evaluation.
Al Hilal’s performance dipped physically and technically after they took control of the scoreline, but Inzaghi believes the team can improve in the coming weeks.
“Our level will improve and develop significantly in the next matches, and we are very happy with the excellent atmosphere and the great interaction with our supporters today,” he said.
The arrival of Martinelli could increase competition for attacking places, but Inzaghi sought to reassure Sultan Mandash that he would continue to have opportunities.
“Of course, Mandash is producing wonderful and excellent performances. We have many commitments and matches ahead in the King’s Cup and the AFC Champions League, and he will have enough opportunities to play and prove himself,” Inzaghi said.
He also highlighted the contributions of Crysencio Summerville and Mandash in the victory, while stressing that the result was a collective achievement.
“Summerville and Mandash did a wonderful and outstanding job on the pitch, but I would like to thank and appreciate the team as a whole. The victory and the points belong to the entire group,” he added.
Inzaghi finished by thanking the Al Hilal supporters for their backing and promised that his coaching staff would continue to work with commitment.
“I thank the fans for attending and supporting us today. The only thing I clearly promise you, in my name and on behalf of all the members of the coaching staff, is dedication and hard work,” he said.
Al Hilal now lead the Saudi Pro League with 12 points from four matches, ahead of rivals Al Nassr on goal difference. Al Nassr have the same number of points.
