File Photo: Former Swiss coach Marcel Koller. Photo courtesy of Al-Ahly Facebook page.
The 12-time African champions failed to defend their title after a 1-1 home draw with South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns in the second leg of the competition’s semi-final at Cairo International Stadium on Friday, exiting on the away goal rule.
“Ahly express their deep gratitude to Marcel Koller, head coach of the first football team, for his exceptional efforts since assuming leadership. Under his guidance and through collective teamwork, Ahly have secured multiple domestic and continental titles,” the club said in an official statement on social media.
“The club acknowledges Koller’s remarkable contributions and commends his unwavering dedication, as well as that of his technical staff, who played a pivotal role in the team’s achievements.
“In light of recent developments and the mutual respect fostered over their longstanding collaboration, negotiations are underway to reach an agreement on the termination of Koller’s contract. Both parties aim to resolve the matter amicably, preserving the distinguished legacy of the club and the coach,” the statement added.
The 64-year-old Swiss tactician took charge of the Red Devils in September 2022, replacing Portuguese manager Ricardo Soares, who lasted just two months in the role.
Since then, Koller led Ahly to 11 trophies, including two Egyptian Premier League titles, two Egypt Cups, four Egyptian Super Cups, two CAF Champions League titles, and the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup bronze medal.
This season, however, Ahly have struggled, as they currently sit second in the league table with 38 points, four behind leaders Pyramids FC, and were eliminated from the Egyptian League Cup.
Ahly risk dropping to third in the standings for the first time in 30 years, if their poor run continues, since they are just four points ahead of arch-rivals Zamalek, who currently sit in third place.
The Cairo giants are scheduled to face Petrojet on Wednesday in the third matchday of the Premier League playoff stage.
The Red Devils are set to kick off the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 campaign against the United States’ Inter Miami on 15 June.
(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)
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