Al-Hilal Pursue Paul Mitchell as Sporting Director in Ambitious Move

Al-Hilal sporting director search signals new era for Saudi giants, as the club actively targets former Newcastle United and Monaco executive Paul Mitchell alongside Inter Milan’s Piero Ausilio to lead their next chapter under Simone Inzaghi.

Al-Hilal Sporting Director Search Intensifies After Inzaghi Appointment

Al-Hilal sporting director recruitment has become a top priority for the club in the wake of Simone Inzaghi’s recent arrival as head coach. The Saudi Pro League powerhouse, known for its ambition and willingness to invest heavily, has set its sights on high-profile candidates to spearhead its sporting operations. Among the most prominent names in consideration are Paul Mitchell, formerly of Newcastle United, AS Monaco, and RB Leipzig, and Piero Ausilio, who has played a pivotal role at Inter Milan.

Why Paul Mitchell and Piero Ausilio Are Top Targets

Paul Mitchell has built a reputation as one of the most innovative sporting directors in European football. His track record includes successful stints at Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur, RB Leipzig, and Monaco, where his player recruitment and data-driven approach have transformed squads and delivered notable results. His brief consultancy role with Newcastle United added Premier League experience to his impressive portfolio, making him a highly sought-after figure for clubs aiming to modernize their footballing operations.

Piero Ausilio’s experience at Inter Milan is equally impressive. Having served as the club’s sporting director since 2014, Ausilio was instrumental in the club’s recent Serie A triumphs and has played a critical role in signing and developing top-tier talent. His deep knowledge of the European market, particularly Italian football, makes him a strategic option for Al-Hilal as they aim to enhance their continental competitiveness.

The Vision Behind Al-Hilal’s Sporting Director Recruitment

Al-Hilal’s pursuit of a world-class sporting director is part of a wider vision to establish long-term dominance both domestically and on the Asian stage. The club’s leadership recognizes that to complement the tactical expertise of Simone Inzaghi, a forward-thinking executive is needed to revolutionize scouting, youth development, and squad management. Their recent spending spree and high-profile coaching appointments indicate a commitment to building a sustainable footballing infrastructure that rivals top European clubs.

The Role of the Sporting Director in Al-Hilal’s Future

The sporting director will be responsible for shaping transfer policy, nurturing young talents, and maintaining a competitive edge in the transfer market. Mitchell’s history of spotting emerging stars and constructing balanced, dynamic squads would align perfectly with Al-Hilal’s ambition to become a beacon for football in the Middle East. Similarly, Ausilio’s experience in managing big personalities and structuring successful teams in pressure-filled environments offers another compelling option.

Al-Hilal Sporting Director Decision Expected Soon

While no official appointment has been made, sources close to the club suggest that talks with both Paul Mitchell and Piero Ausilio are in advanced stages. The decision will be pivotal, as Al-Hilal aims to combine European expertise with Saudi ambition in order to elevate the club’s standing regionally and globally.

With the club setting its sights on continued AFC Champions League glory and ongoing domestic supremacy, the new sporting director will shape transfer policy and development pathways. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Al-Hilal’s ambitious project unfolds.

What This Means for Saudi Football

Al-Hilal’s high-profile recruitment drive signals a broader trend within Saudi Arabian football: a desire to attract global talent not just on the pitch, but within the boardroom and technical staff as well. If successful, the arrival of an esteemed sporting director could serve as a blueprint for other Saudi Pro League teams, strengthening the league’s reputation as a hub for international football excellence.

Opinion: A Defining Step in Al-Hilal’s Evolution

Appointing an executive of Paul Mitchell or Piero Ausilio’s caliber would be a game-changer, reflecting Al-Hilal’s evolution from a regional power to a club with global ambitions. Such a move could have a ripple effect, attracting even more top talent and raising the profile of Saudi football on the world stage. For more news on Al-Hilal’s latest moves and developments from across the football world, visit for more news.