Rumors about Allegri’s involvement
©TM/IMAGO
Contrary to reports to the contrary, Matthias Jaissle does not have to fear for his coaching job at Al-Ahli SFC. The fifth-placed team in the Saudi Pro League confirmed in a statement that the 36-year-old German would remain in office. It was said that he had the full support of the sporting leadership. Various media had previously reported that Massimiliano Allegri would replace Jaissle – to the displeasure of the fans.
Supporters protested on social media, among other things, against Jaissle’s supposedly impending departure. The Ultra group also left a protest banner outside the club’s premises and said in a statement that Jaissle was just a “scapegoat” for the “management’s failure” to meet the team’s needs.
Al-Ahli subsequently announced that fans should only believe the club’s official communications and not listen to media reports. The sporting leadership is trying to sign new players and conclude extensions in order to achieve more positive results.
Al-Ahli already left behind in the Saudi Pro League
With transfer spending of 235 million euros since 2023, the club from Jeddah has the third most valuable squad in the Saudi Pro League, peppered with stars like Roberto Firmino (33) and Riyad Mahrez (33). Last season, the then promoted club reached third place and qualified for the AFC Champions League Elite. There Al-Ahli is in second place in Group A behind leaders Al-Hilal and ahead of Al-Nassr. In the league, however, the team only collected 26 points this season, 14 fewer than league leaders Al-Hilal.
Jaissle, who left his previous coaching position at Red Bull Salzburg accompanied by disruptive noises, has been coaching the team since the summer of 2023. Under his leadership, Al-Ahli scored an average of 1.86 points in 59 games.
