Simone Inzaghi attracted interest from Italian clubs during the summer but decided to remain with Al-Hilal, according to his agent Pastorello.
Inzaghi is now in his second season in Saudi Arabia, although his long-term future remains unresolved. Pastorello said the coach’s experience at Al-Hilal had benefited him, while stressing that no possible destination could yet be ruled out.
“A year of experience has helped him a lot. We’ll see the results after the season,” Pastorello told SportMediaset.
“This matter is not completely settled, and no direction can be said to be closed off. Of course, the club’s wishes also need to be considered.”
Pastorello said Inzaghi continues to attract regular interest, including from Italy, but there was no need to discuss a move during the latest transfer window because the former Inter coach had already decided to stay.
“Every summer, four or five clubs look for him, including Italian clubs, and this summer was no exception,” he said. “But there was no need to even make contact because his idea was to stay.”
Acerbi seeking a return
Pastorello also provided an update on free agent Francesco Acerbi, who is keen to resume his career but is waiting for a suitable opportunity.
“He really wants to return, but we need to find the right option, an environment that matches his abilities and status,” said Pastorello.
The agent was also asked about Switzerland goalkeeper Sommer and reported interest from Juventus. He confirmed that Juventus had made contact during the summer, alongside several foreign clubs and teams from the Premier League.
Juventus had considered Sommer as an experienced deputy for Di Gregorio, but Pastorello said the goalkeeper’s quality meant regular football should remain the priority.
“Juventus had contact this summer, just like many other foreign clubs and Premier League teams,” he said.
“Juventus had an opportunity at the time to bring him in as a backup for Di Gregorio, which would have been a chance. However, such a young and excellent goalkeeper should be playing.”
Pastorello said Juventus remained one of the possible destinations for Sommer, although no decision had been made.
“We can say Juventus is on the list of possibilities; let’s see what happens next,” he added.
Meret’s Napoli future
Attention also turned to Alex Meret, whose contract with Napoli is due to expire. Asked whether the goalkeeper could agree another deal with the club, Pastorello said he would consider any future proposals.
“We will certainly be open to hearing about future opportunities,” he said.
However, Pastorello believes Meret’s strong connection with Napoli could make a further stay possible, provided the club wants to retain him.
“But if I had to bet on an outcome, I would say Alex is too deeply connected to the environment there, so it’s not impossible for him to stay, provided Napoli wants to keep him, of course.”
