New Delhi: Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal and head coach Jorge Jesus have mutually agreed to part ways on Saturday. The decision follows a challenging period for the reigning champions, who had recently fallen six points behind in the league title race and were eliminated from the AFC Champions League semi-final after a 3-1 defeat to Al-Ahli earlier this week.
The club confirmed the former Benfica manager’s departure in an official statement, which read: “The Board of Directors of Al-Hilal Club Company has agreed with the Portuguese head coach of the first team, Jorge Jesus, to terminate the contractual relationship between them. The Board expressed its appreciation for the efforts made by the technical staff since last season.”
The 70-year-old Jesus had been in charge since 2023, marking his second spell with the Saudi club. Last season, he notably delivered a domestic double, guiding his side to an unbeaten campaign where they won 31 of 34 Saudi Pro League matches.
📄 Al-Hilal and Jesus agree to terminate the contractual relationship 🔷 pic.twitter.com/83YT3DLrtt
— AlHilal Saudi Club (@Alhilal_EN) May 2, 2025
Who could replace him?
For now, the club has appointed Mohammed Al-Shalhoub as the interim manager for the remainder of the season. A permanent appointment is expected before the Club World Cup in June, with several high-profile names being linked with the position. Jose Mourinho, Xavi Hernandez, and Marco Silva are reportedly among the prime contenders to take the job.
What’s next for Jesus?
Jorge Jesus has been linked with the Brazil national team job, although Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti remains their top target.
What next for Al-Hilal?
Al-Hilal will return to Saudi Pro League action on May 7 with an away fixture against Al-Raed. With five games remaining in the league and Al-Hilal currently sitting second in the table, the upcoming clash is a crucial one as the club looks to secure maximum points from their remaining fixtures to stay in contention for the title.
Al-Hilal part ways with Jorge Jesus after AFC Champions League exit; Mourinho, Xavi linked as club eyes new boss ahead of FIFA Club World Cup. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
