The unbelievable but expected news was announced by the African giants on Saturday. Marcel Koller was definitely going to be sacrificed even in the middle of transition because the club hates losing. The 1-1 draw on Friday afternoon in the second leg of the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League in Cairo ended Al Ahly’s five consecutive years in the finals of the CAF Champions League having won four of them.
The standard the club has set is incredible, and failing to win the CAF Champions League means disaster.
In a statement from the club on Saturday, Al Ahly thanked Marcel Koller for his “exceptional efforts” since taking charge in September 2022, highlighting the domestic and continental successes achieved under his leadership.
“Al Ahly express their deep gratitude to Marcel Koller for his remarkable contributions,” the club said. “In light of recent developments and the mutual respect between both parties, negotiations are underway to finalize the amicable termination of his contract.”
During his time in Cairo, the Swiss coach led the club to an astonishing 11 titles, including two Egyptian Premier League crowns, two Egypt Cups, four Egyptian Super Cups, two CAF Champions League trophies, and a bronze medal at the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup.
Things have however changed this season with the club failing to hit their usual standards. They currently trail Pyramids FC in the Egyptian Premier League by four points and have already been eliminated from the Egyptian League Cup. With Zamalek closing the gap, Al Ahly risk falling to third in the standings for the first time in three decades and subsequently not qualifying for the CAF Champions League.
The Red Devils will switch attention to finishing within the top two of the Egyptian Premier League, although nobody knows when exactly they are going to appoint a new head coach to replace Koller.
Al Ahly in the FIFA Club World Cup will play the opening game against MLS side Inter Miami on 15th June.
