Simone Inzaghi plans a short break for Al Hilal players during international window

Al Hilal manager Simone Inzaghi has given his players only 24 hours off after their 2-1 victory over Qatar’s Al Gharafa in their opening AFC Champions League Elite match, according to Saudi newspaper Al Riyadiyah.

The Italian coach is expected to continue training despite being without Al Hilal’s international players, who will be involved with the Saudi Arabia national team at Gulf Cup 27.

The tournament begins on 23 September and runs until 6 October.

Al Hilal will train for five days before Inzaghi gives the remaining squad a week-long break, the report said.

The seven players set to leave the club are Mohammed Al Owais, Mohammed Kanno, Nasser Al-Dawsari, Moteb Al-Harbi, Mohammed Mahzari, Hassan Tambakti and Sultan Mandash. They are due to join the Saudi Arabia camp at noon on Thursday.

Al Hilal currently lead the Saudi league with 18 points.

They also opened their continental campaign with victory against Al Gharafa and have secured qualification for the round of 16 in the King’s Cup.