In a dramatic turn of events, Al Ahly has parted ways with head coach Marcel Koller following a disappointing exit from the Cape Champions League. The Swiss manager's dismissal came on the heels of a semi-final defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns, raising questions about not only the team's performance but also the internal dynamics within the squad.
Former Al Ahly football director Khaled Bebo has come forward to shed light on the factors that contributed to Koller’s exit, particularly highlighting the "unfair" treatment of certain players as a significant issue. Bebo stated that Koller was not on good terms with several key players, including Reda Selim, Ahmed Abdelkader, Afsha, Kahraba, and Aliou Dieng. This discord reportedly played a role in Koller missing the opportunity to coach at the upcoming Club World Cup.
“Koller’s dream was to play in the World Cup, but not everything is up to the mood,” Bebo noted. He further elaborated on the situation, explaining that players like Reda Selim were not given adequate playing time despite performing well. “Reda Selim could have had a bigger chance because he was doing well, but Koller refused to give him any playing time,” Bebo added.
The tension within the squad was exacerbated by Koller’s decisions regarding player selection, particularly after the arrival of new signings. “When Modeste arrived, Kahraba took a lot of playing time because he was the one who brought him in and was convinced that he had to succeed,” Bebo remarked. This situation not only affected the morale of the players but also raised concerns about Koller’s management style.
As Al Ahly prepares for the Club World Cup, which will be held in America between June and July this year, they are also dealing with the implications of Koller’s departure. The team will be representing Africa alongside Mamelodi Sundowns, Wydad Athletic Club, and Esperance de Tunis in this prestigious tournament.
In a related development, Al Ahly is considering the return of one of their standout players, Aliou Dieng, who has been on loan at Saudi Pro League club Al-Kholood. The 27-year-old midfielder has made a significant impact since his move, helping Al-Kholood in their battle to remain in the Saudi top flight.
Mohammed Al Khalifa, the president of Al-Kholood, has expressed his willingness to end Dieng’s loan early to facilitate his return to Al Ahly for the Club World Cup. “Ahly and the loan ends on June 30. The player is performing at a high level, but we want him to stay, and if Al Ahly requests the player's presence in the Club World Cup, I will carry Dieng on a private plane to Al Ahly,” Khalifa stated, emphasizing his desire to support Al Ahly’s ambitions.
Al Khalifa confirmed that while he would prefer Dieng to remain with Al-Kholood, he understands the importance of the upcoming tournament for Al Ahly. “The season ends at the end of May, and we want Dieng to continue, but after the end of the season, the club's situation will be evaluated. There is a desire to buy the player permanently,” he added.
As of now, Al-Kholood has not requested any other players from Al Ahly, and Khalifa reassured that all financial obligations have been met, including fines for delayed payments. This situation highlights the complexities of player management and the strategic decisions clubs must navigate as they prepare for crucial competitions.
The developments surrounding Marcel Koller’s departure and Aliou Dieng’s potential return are just the latest chapters in Al Ahly’s storied history. With high expectations from fans and the pressure to perform on international stages, the club is at a critical juncture as they look to solidify their roster and coaching staff ahead of the Club World Cup.
Only time will tell how these changes will impact Al Ahly’s performance in the upcoming tournament and whether the club can reclaim its status as a dominant force in African football.
