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Inzaghi Backs Cancelo Exit as Discipline Tops Football: Al Hilal's Winter Window Move

30 December 2025

Inzaghi Backs Cancelo Exit as Discipline Tops Football: Al Hilal's Winter Window Move
Discipline concerns loom as Cancelo's future at Al Hilal hangs in the balance.

Inzaghi Greenlights a Cancelo Exit as Discipline Takes Center Stage

Italian coach Simone Inzaghi has told Al Hilal's bosses he does not object to Cancelo's departure in the winter transfer window.

Reports say the decision rests on disciplinary issues rather than footballing reasons.

Inzaghi contends Cancelo has discipline issues off the pitch that could hurt the dressing room.

Al Hilal is open to letting Cancelo go if a good offer comes in to finance new signings.

He also reportedly refuses to re-register Cancelo on the eight-foreign players list, favoring no changes to the foreign player slate.

Cancelo sustained a serious injury against Al-Duhail in the AFC Champions League Elite, was dropped from the squad, and Brazilian Marcus Leonardo was registered in his place.

Since returning from injury, he has appeared in four continental matches, scoring one goal and providing two assists.

Punchline 1: If discipline counted as goals, Cancelo would be leading the league right now.

Punchline 2: Inzaghi’s transfer plan is simple: discipline first, drama off the bench second.

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Cancelo’s future at Al Hilal in doubt?

Disciplinary issues off the pitch are cited as the reason, rather than footballing performance.

Will Al Hilal accept offers for Cancelo?

Yes, if a suitable bid arrives that can finance new signings.

What happened in the AFC Champions League regarding Cancelo?

He was injured against Al-Duhail, dropped from the squad, and Marcus Leonardo was registered in his place; he has since played four continental games with a goal and two assists.