Simone Inzaghi explains why he missed Al Hilal’s post-match media duties

Simone Inzaghi was absent from Al Hilal’s post-match press conference because throat pain left him unable to speak after Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Al Fateh.

The Italian coach appeared in the media area after the game and pointed towards his throat, indicating that his condition prevented him from addressing reporters. His assistant, Massimiliano Farris, instead took his place and answered questions about the match.

Al Hilal secured three points in the 12th round of the Roshn Saudi League with a two-goal win over Al Fateh, maintaining their challenge at the top of the competition.

Farris confirmed that Inzaghi’s absence was caused by pain in his larynx. He also discussed the demands placed on Al Hilal before the fixture, with the team having travelled for an AFC Champions League Elite match before returning to domestic action.

The assistant manager said Al Fateh had enjoyed an advantage in their preparations because they had eight days to get ready for the contest. Al Hilal, by contrast, had to cope with the additional strain of travelling and a short turnaround after their continental involvement.

Al Hilal faced Shabab Al Ahli Dubai in the AFC Champions League Elite on 03 November 2026 before their Roshn Saudi League meeting with Al Fateh on 06 November 2026 in Riyadh.

Farris acknowledged that Al Hilal had opportunities to settle the game earlier but said the team ultimately achieved the result it wanted by winning 2-0.

He added that the coaching staff had placed particular emphasis on limiting Al Fateh’s threat on the counter-attack, with close attention paid to the movement of Morad Batna and his team-mates.

Inzaghi therefore missed the customary media appearance for health reasons, while Farris delivered the coaching staff’s assessment of a victory which allowed Al Hilal to remain in contention for the Roshn Saudi League leadership.