Pablo Mari is set to leave Fiorentina for Al-Hilal, bolstering Simone Inzaghi’s defensive options while thinning Fiorentina’s backline. Betting angle: Al-Hilal’s odds for domestic success and clean-sheet markets may shorten, while Fiorentina could see higher goals-against expectations — consider backing Al-Hilal in match markets or Over lines on Fiorentina fixtures in the short term.
Pablo Mari Departs Fiorentina for Al-Hilal
Pablo Mari has left Fiorentina’s training ground and is travelling to Saudi Arabia to complete a move to Al-Hilal. The 32-year-old centre-back made 16 competitive appearances this season across Serie A and the Conference League, but was reportedly not in Fiorentina’s plans going forward and has emptied his locker at the club.
Inzaghi Secures Defensive Reinforcement
What Al-Hilal Wanted
Simone Inzaghi, seeking defensive reinforcements, has added Mari to his options. Prior targets included experienced central defenders such as Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij, but those avenues were complicated by transfer dynamics elsewhere that ultimately stalled.
How Mari Fits the Team
Mari brings experience from multiple leagues and a physical presence in central defence. His arrival gives Al-Hilal another seasoned option to rotate into the backline, potentially improving defensive stability and tactical flexibility under Inzaghi.
Career Snapshot and Personal Background
Mari’s club career has included spells with Manchester City, Flamengo, Arsenal, NAC Breda, Monza and Fiorentina, which he joined in January 2025. He has overcome serious personal adversity, having been the victim of a stabbing incident in October 2022 while living in Italy.
Betting Implications and Markets to Watch
Short-term Market Moves
Al-Hilal’s defensive reinforcement could shorten their odds in domestic title markets and increase appeal in clean-sheet and goals-against props. For Fiorentina, the loss of a senior centre-back may nudge bookmakers to raise expected goals against in upcoming fixtures — markets such as Over total goals in Fiorentina matches or Al-Hilal clean-sheet bets are ones to monitor.
Risk and Strategy
Market shifts can be rapid around transfers; bettors should watch line movements and team selection confirmations before staking. Consider smaller, value-focused wagers until Mari’s role and integration at Al-Hilal are clear.
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Fiorentina defender Pablo Mari has left the Viola training ground, as he is flying out to join Simone Inzaghi’s Al-Hilal.The 32-year-old had made 16 competitive appearances for the club so far this ...
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