Jose Riveiro axed by Al Ahly after disastrous start to season

Egyptian club Al Ahly SC have officially parted ways with head coach José Riveiro after just three months in charge, following a string of disappointing performances that left the Egyptian giants languishing in 12th place in the Premier League standings.

The decision was confirmed on Sunday evening after a marathon meeting involving club president Mahmoud Al-Khatib and sports director Mohamed Youssef. The club announced that the termination was reached by mutual consent, citing the need to realign with the club’s ambitions at both domestic and continental levels.

Riveiro’s final match at the helm - a 2-0 home defeat to reigning CAF Champions League winners Pyramids FC - proved to be the final straw. The loss capped a dismal run-in which Al Ahly managed just one win in seven matches under the Spanish tactician.

Despite arriving in Cairo with a decorated résumé from his time at Orlando Pirates - where he clinched five trophies in three seasons - Riveiro struggled to replicate that success in Egypt. His tenure began with a disappointing Fifa Club World Cup campaign in the United States, where Al Ahly exited in the group stages without a win.

In a statement, the club expressed gratitude for Riveiro’s efforts and acknowledged his commitment, but emphasised that results did not meet expectations. “The committee stressed its appreciation for what he has done since taking charge, and that he has made a lot of effort, but the results did not help to complete the experience,” the statement read.

As speculation swirls about Riveiro’s next move, sources suggest a potential return to the South African Premier Soccer League could be on the cards. Meanwhile, Al Ahly’s planning committee continues its search for a new technical team to steer the club forward.

Stay tuned for updates on Al Ahly’s next appointment and Riveiro’s coaching future.