Sergej Milinković-Savić Responds to Saudi Critics: ‘Go Ahead and Critique Us Now’

Sergej Milinković-Savić, the Serbian midfielder currently plying his trade with Al Hilal, has been making waves in football circles lately, especially after his team’s remarkable upset against Manchester City in the FIFA Club World Cup. Following Al Hilal’s thrilling 4-3 victory over the English giants, Milinković-Savić felt compelled to address the critical voices surrounding Saudi Arabian football, declaring, “Let’s see if they criticize us now.” This bold statement not only showcases his confidence in his team but also highlights the shifting perceptions of the Saudi Pro League.

### The Move to Saudi Arabia

Milinković-Savić is one of multiple players who have opted to leave established European clubs for the Saudi Pro League, a decision that has met with skepticism. Critics frequently argue that these players are prioritizing lucrative contracts over the ambition of competing at the highest levels of football. The substantial investments from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund have transformed the league, drawing attention and top talent from across Europe. Since his move from Lazio in 2023, Milinković-Savić has sought to change the narrative surrounding this lucrative transition.

### A Show of Strength

Al Hilal’s unexpected win against Manchester City is a significant milestone, not just for the club but for the entire Saudi league. Milinković-Savić pointed out that their performances against renowned teams such as Real Madrid and Salzburg further illustrate the quality of football being offered in the league. He emphasizes that critics should reconsider their stance, as Al Hilal continues to demonstrate competitiveness on a global stage. His statement indicates a deeper sense of pride for both the team and the league that often gets overlooked.

### The Coach’s Influence

Adding to the intrigue of Al Hilal’s recent success is the presence of coach Simone Inzaghi, who also made the leap to the Saudi league after an accomplished stint in Europe with Inter Milan. Inzaghi’s expertise has quickly come into play; despite having only weeks to work with his new players before the Club World Cup, he led them to a historic victory. Reflecting on the match, Inzaghi remarked, “We had to do something extraordinary,” acknowledging the challenge that Manchester City presented.

### The Heart of the Team

Inzaghi attributed the victory to the players’ determination and heart displayed on the pitch. He likened the challenge of facing Manchester City to “climbing Mount Everest without oxygen,” drawing a vivid picture of the uphill battle they faced. His admiration for Pep Guardiola, regarded as one of the best coaches globally, was evident, further highlighting the significance of Al Hilal’s achievement.

### Factors for Success

The synergy between a talented squad and an experienced coach has been critical for Al Hilal. With players like Milinković-Savić, who bring a wealth of experience and skill from European leagues, the team’s potential seems boundless. The recent victory serves not only as a confidence booster for Al Hilal but also positions the Saudi Pro League as a legitimate competitor in the international football arena.

### Looking Ahead

As Al Hilal strides through this new chapter, it will certainly be interesting to see how their performance affects perceptions of Saudi football in the long run. With players like Milinković-Savić leading the charge and proving their capabilities on the world stage, the dialogue around the Saudi Pro League could soon shift from skepticism to admiration. The league’s journey is just beginning, but with such promising displays, it appears to be on a path of transformation.