After weeks of search, Egyptian giants Al Ahly have finally announced a new head coach for the vacant role.
The club has officially appointed Danish tactician Jess Thorup as their new head coach, signing him to a two-and-a-half-year deal in a bid to return to the summit of African football.
Egyptian football giants Al Ahly confirmed the hiring of Jess Thorup on Wednesday afternoon, marking a significant shift in leadership following the departure of Spanish coach José Riveiro.
Riveiro was sacked after failing to meet the standard of the club, with early results suggesting the marriage was going to collapse.
New coach Thorup, 55, brings a wealth of experience from European football, having managed clubs such as FC Copenhagen, Genk, Gent, and most recently FC Augsburg in Germany’s Bundesliga.
His appointment is seen as a strategic move to reinforce Al Ahly’s dominance both domestically and on the continental stage.
The deal, reportedly worth at least 60 million Danish kroner (approximately $8.5 million), is considered one of the most lucrative coaching contracts in African football history.
Thorup is expected to arrive in Cairo with a full backroom staff, including two assistants, a physical trainer, a technical analyst, and a goalkeeping coach.
Thorup’s track record includes winning the Danish Superliga twice and guiding Denmark’s Under-21 team to the UEFA European Championship semi-finals and Olympic qualification.
His tactical acumen and ability to build cohesive squads have earned him respect across Europe.
Al Ahly’s management, led by club president Mahmoud El-Khatib, expressed confidence in Thorup’s ability to lead the team to new heights.
The appointment comes at a time when Al Ahly are regaining momentum under interim coach Emad El-Nahhas, who secured four consecutive league wins, including a crucial victory in the Cairo derby.
With the team currently tied on points with Zamalek and Masry at the top of the table, Thorup’s arrival is expected to inject fresh energy and strategic direction as the club eyes silverware across multiple competitions.
