Simone Inzaghi faces no peace at Al-Hilal. If he wins, credit is scarce; if he loses, he is torn apart. Despite 49 wins, 14 draws and three defeats, the former Lazio and Inter boss has never won over fans, and tensions exploded after Tuesday's 3-1 Asian Champions League loss to Al-Shamal.

Inzaghi rotated heavily, fielding eight fringe players and resting Bounou, Koulibaly, Neves and Milinkovic-Savic. Only Theo Hernandez started, while opponents fielded Mahrez and Pablo Mari.

The defeat hardly dents a strong campaign – top of the Saudi Pro League, two points ahead of Ronaldo's Al Nassr, and well placed for knockouts after winning first two games.

Yet criticism rained. Journalist Abdullah Falatah blasted: "You can have money, but then the coach ruins everything," referencing Inzaghi's €25 million salary.