Zoran Mamic named new Al Hilal manager, but a quick reunion with Al Ain awaits

Zoran Mamic has been appointed Al Hilal manager on a one-and-a-half-year contract.

The Croatian replaces the Portuguese Jorge Jesus, who has left the Saudi Pro League leaders by mutual consent after less than a year in charge.

Mamic returns to a country where he previously coaches Al Nassr after stepping down as manager of UAE champions Al Ain just eight months after leading the club to a league-and-cup double, the first in the club's history.

He also guided Al Ain to the Fifa Club World Cup final last month, where they lost 4-1 to Real Madrid in Abu Dhabi.

But the 47 year old will find himself in a quick reunion with his former employers: Al Hilal open their Asian Champions League campaign with a match against Al Ain on Match 5.