Hegazi Begins NEOM Role, United FC’s Pirlo Misses Italy Job And Benzema Rejects Al Hilal Exit Proposal

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From NEOM’s new football structure to Italy’s coaching drama and Benzema’s uncertain Al Hilal future, there’s plenty happening across regional sport. Ahmed Hegazi has begun his new role as Assistant Sporting Director of NEOM SC, United FC head coach Andrea Pirlo is no longer in the race to coach Italy, and Karim Benzema has reportedly rejected Al Hilal’s proposal to move to a newly promoted Saudi Pro League club.

Ahmed Hegazi Begins New Role With NEOM SC

What Is It About
Ahmed Hegazi has officially begun a new chapter in football after being appointed Assistant Sporting Director of NEOM SC. The former Egypt captain moves into a management role just days after retiring from professional football.

Why It Matters
Hegazi ends a 17-year playing career that included spells with Egyptian giants Al Ahly, English club West Bromwich Albion, Saudi side Al Ittihad and NEOM. His move into sporting operations keeps him directly involved in football after a long career as one of Egypt’s most experienced defenders.

What’s Next
Hegazi will now help oversee NEOM’s sporting operations as the Saudi Pro League newcomers prepare for their debut top-flight season. The role gives him an immediate transition from the pitch into football management.

United FC’s Pirlo No Longer In Race To Coach Italy

What Is It About
United FC head coach Andrea Pirlo will not become Italy’s new national team manager after days of debate around his possible appointment. The former Italy midfielder said he had learned he was no longer a candidate for the job.

Why It Matters
Pirlo’s name had been strongly linked with the role, but the situation became controversial because of his sponsorship connection with Russian betting company Fonbet. His possible appointment had also divided opinion because of his limited coaching record since retiring as a player.

What’s Next
The fallout has now grown beyond Pirlo. Paolo Maldini and Leonardo have reportedly resigned from their Italian Football Federation roles after the coaching plan collapsed, leaving Italy’s search for a new national team manager in further uncertainty.

Benzema Rejects Al Hilal Exit Proposal

What Is It About
Karim Benzema has reportedly rejected Al Hilal’s proposal to move to a newly promoted Saudi Pro League club. According to Arriyadiyah, the French striker wants his remaining financial entitlements paid in full before agreeing to leave.

Why It Matters
Benzema only joined Al Hilal in February 2026, but his future is already uncertain. The former Real Madrid striker scored nine goals in 13 appearances, yet the reported exit talks suggest Al Hilal may be looking to reshape their attacking options.

What’s Next
No agreement over Benzema’s future has been announced yet. For now, the situation appears to depend on whether his financial demands are settled before any move to another Saudi club can happen.

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