Shaken by a painful Champions League exit and relentless fan outrage, Egyptian giants Ahly officially parted ways with Swiss coach Marcel Koller on Saturday.
The 12-time African champions saw their title defense collapse after a 1-1 home draw against South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns in Friday’s semi-final second leg at Cairo International Stadium, crashing out on the away goals rule.
“Ahly extended their heartfelt thanks to head coach Marcel Koller, praising his outstanding contributions since taking charge. The club highlighted that, under his leadership and through collective effort, Ahly captured several domestic and continental trophies,” read an official statement on social media.
“Ahly paid tribute to Marcel Koller, hailing his outstanding leadership and the tireless efforts of his technical staff, which delivered a golden era of trophies for the club.
‘In light of recent events, and with mutual respect between both sides, negotiations are ongoing to finalize an amicable termination of Koller’s contract, ensuring the coach’s legacy remains intact,’ the club announced.”
Koller, 64, took charge of the Red Devils in September 2022, stepping in after the abrupt departure of Portuguese coach Ricardo Soares.
In less than two years, the Swiss tactician led Ahly to an incredible 11 titles, including two Egyptian Premier League crowns, two Egypt Cups, four Egyptian Super Cups, two CAF Champions League trophies, and a FIFA Club World Cup bronze medal.
But glory gave way to growing frustration this season. Ahly currently sit second in the league with 38 points, four points behind Pyramids FC, and were dumped out of the Egyptian League Cup.
Alarmingly, the Red Devils could drop to third place — a position they haven’t occupied in 30 years — with Zamalek lurking just four points behind.
Now, with pressure mounting, Ahly turn the page. They prepare for a crucial clash against Petrojet on Wednesday, before a blockbuster FIFA Club World Cup showdown against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami on June 15.
