Al Ahly Scrambles for New Manager After Riveiro Sacking
Egyptian giants Al Ahly are on the hunt for a new manager following the dismissal of Jose Riveiro. The club's poor start to the 2025/26 season, with only one win in five league games, led to Riveiro's departure after a 2-0 defeat to Pyramids.
Currently languishing in 15th place in the Egyptian Premier League, Al Ahly are desperate for a replacement who can turn their fortunes around and compete for trophies both domestically and in the CAF Champions League. The pressure is on to find someone who can quickly restore the team's winning mentality.
Former EPL Coach Nuno Espirito Santo Considered
According to reports, Al Ahly are considering former Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo for the vacant managerial position. The Portuguese coach, who previously managed Tottenham Hotspur and Wolverhampton Wanderers, is no stranger to Arab football, having coached Saudi side Al-Ittihad.
While Santo initially expressed interest in managing Al Ahly, he later indicated his preference to remain in Europe, with offers from clubs in the English Premier League, Bundesliga, and Ligue 1. This leaves Al Ahly searching for alternative options.
Al Ahly's Influence on Coaches' Reputations
Adding another layer to the managerial situation, a prominent Al Ahly figure, Harbi Mahfouz, has claimed that the club itself is responsible for elevating the reputation of coaches who join them. He argues that coaches like Marcel Koller, Pitso Mosimane, and even Jose Riveiro owe their recognition to their time at Al Ahly.
"Who is Koller without Al Ahly? Who is Mosimane without Al Ahly?" Mahfouz stated, emphasizing that Al Ahly's global status and sporting organization contribute significantly to a coach's success. This perspective raises questions about the criteria Al Ahly should prioritize when selecting their next manager.
What's Next for Al Ahly?
With Santo likely out of the running, Al Ahly are expected to consider other foreign coaches. The club has a history of appointing foreign tacticians, and it seems they are leaning towards continuing this trend. The pressure is on to make the right appointment and steer the team back to its winning ways.