Coaching Rift Emerges at Al Ahly Amid Riveiro Appointment Plans

Egyptian football powerhouse Al Ahly is set for a significant backroom staff overhaul after interim head coach Emad El Nahhas reportedly declined an offer to remain on board under the club’s incoming manager, Jose Riveiro.

El Nahhas Takes The Helm

El Nahhas, a revered club legend, took charge in April following the dismissal of Swiss coach Marcel Koller, leading the Red Devils toward clinching the 2024/25 Egyptian Premier League title.

The club’s management hoped to retain him as part of Riveiro’s coaching team, valuing his intimate knowledge of Al Ahly and Egyptian football.

However, reports from Egypt, reveal that El Nahhas has turned down the offer, reportedly after Riveiro himself expressed reluctance to work alongside him. Riveiro, formerly of Orlando Pirates, is expected to be officially announced as Al Ahly’s head coach later this week.

El Nahhas will oversee Al Ahly’s final league match this season against Pharco FC on Wednesday, May 28, at Cairo International Stadium before pursuing head coaching opportunities elsewhere in the Egyptian Premier League.

Last Appearance With Orlando

Meanwhile, Jose Riveiro’s final match as Orlando Pirates manager will be Tuesday evening’s clash against Golden Arrows.

Pirates confirmed Riveiro has requested early release from his contract after signing with his new club, believed to be Al Ahly.

Despite a shortened farewell, Pirates praised his valuable contributions, including four cup titles and strong league performances.

Riveiro acknowledged the talent at Pirates but refrained from directly responding when asked if he planned to seek former Pirates players at his new team.