Did Al Ahly Just Hire Its Own Worst Enemy?
Get ready, Ahly fans, because the club just made a move that will either be a stroke of genius or a spectacular gamble. Everything you thought you knew about Al Ahly's coaching philosophy might be about to change.
⚡ Key Takeaways
- Al Ahly officially appointed Moroccan coach Hussein Ammouta for two seasons, a decision finalized this week.
- Ammouta famously led Wydad Casablanca to a CAF Champions League victory over Al Ahly in 2017, adding a dramatic twist to his new role.
- The Red Devils are looking to rebound after a "disappointing campaign" where they finished third in the Egyptian Premier League and missed out on titles.
- This historic appointment marks the first time a Moroccan coach will take the helm at Al Ahly.
The Man Who Beat the Reds
Picture this: it's 2017, and Al Ahly is battling Wydad Casablanca in the CAF Champions League final. Who was leading Wydad to that unforgettable victory against the Red Devils? None other than Hussein Ammouta. Now, in a stunning turn of events, the very man who orchestrated one of Al Ahly's most painful continental defeats is set to lead them. This isn't just a coaching change; it's a narrative twist straight out of a movie.
"Ammouta brings a strong coaching résumé, having achieved success with several teams. He won the CAF Confederation Cup with FUS Rabat, domestic trophies with Al Sadd in Qatar, and notably guided Wydad Casablanca to the 2017 CAF Champions League title against Al Ahly."
Why Now? The Stakes Are Sky-High
Al Ahly's decision comes after what many are calling a "disappointing campaign." The club failed to secure any titles last season and finished a surprising third in the Egyptian Premier League standings. This meant they only qualified for the CAF Confederation Cup, a far cry from their usual Champions League aspirations. The pressure is immense to get back to winning ways, and the club's board, led by Mahmoud El Khatib, approved a restructuring of the football department to make this happen.
What This Means for Al Ahly's Future
Ammouta's two-year contract signals a clear intent to shake things up. He's known for his tactical prowess and his ability to win major trophies, including the 2020 African Nations Championship with Morocco's local national team and leading Jordan to the 2023 AFC Asian Cup final. He's also bringing a four-member coaching staff with him, including an assistant, fitness coach, goalkeeping coach, and performance analyst. This isn't just a new face; it's a whole new approach. The question now is, can the man who once conquered Al Ahly lead them back to glory?
The real question is, will Ammouta's intimate knowledge of how to beat Al Ahly be the secret ingredient to their next era of dominance, or will this bold gamble backfire spectacularly?
