The Cairo giants confirmed the departures of defender Rami Rabia (32), Tunisian left-back Ali Maaloul (35), midfielder Amr El Sulaya (36), Akram Tawfik (27), and goalkeeper Hamza Alaa (24) over the past two days.
Ahly said they opted not to renew the deals, although Rabia and Alaa had been in talks to stay but failed to reach an agreement.
Maaloul, who spent nine years at Ahly, bid an emotional farewell, saying: “I was informed that my career with Ahly is over. Throughout these years, the loyal fans were my nation and my warmth. I was never alone, as your support was the backbone that gave me hope and love.”
In contrast, Ahly has bolstered its squad with several new signings.
Winger Mahmoud ‘Trezeguet’ Hassan joins from Trabzonspor, after completing his loan stint at Qatari side Al-Rayyan.
The club also secured former midfielder Hamdi Fathi on loan from Al-Wakrah and Malian midfielder Aliou Dieng will rejoin the squad after spending the past season on loan at Saudi side Al Kholood.
Additionally, goalkeeper Mohamed Seha has joined from Arab Contractors on a four-year deal, and Tunisian midfielder Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane is expected to be unveiled in the next few days.
The Reds are also set to welcome back Malian midfielder Aliou Dieng who spent a season-long loan at Saudi side Al Kholoud.
Ahly, 12-time African champions, are among the four teams representing the African continent in the prestigious global competition.
The Red Devils’ opening match is scheduled for Sunday, 15 June, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where they will face Inter Miami, led by Argentine star Lionel Messi.
The United States will host the first-ever expanded FIFA Club World Cup, featuring 32 teams across 10 states.
(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)