File Photo: Ahly’s Tunisian fullback, Ali Maaloul. Photo courtesy of Ali Maaloul Instagram account.
Maaloul's agent, John Edward, confirmed the player's departure this winter, emphasizing that the decision was made to alleviate any potential discomfort for all involved parties, especially now that Maaloul has fully recuperated and is ready to return to action.
"In light of Ali's recovery and readiness to compete, we have mutually agreed to part ways with Ahly today. However, discussions about his future and upcoming ventures have not yet been held with the club," Edward said in a press release sent to the media on Monday.
Expressing gratitude towards Ahly and their devoted supporters, the statement highlighted Maaloul's loyalty to the team despite lucrative offers that came his way.
While reports suggested that Ahly's management, led by chairman Mahmoud El-Khatib, was inclined to extend Maaloul's contract, the team's Swiss coach, Marcel Koller, had differing plans for the player's future.
Maaloul's journey with Ahly encountered a setback when he underwent surgery in May 2024 to address a partial tendon tear sustained during a match against Esperance de Tunis, which had sidelined him for an extended period since the Champions League final's first leg.
Despite extending his contract for a further year last summer, Maaloul has been dropped from the squad in order to make way for a foreign player. He has not been included back when the transfer window opened in January as Koller wants to sign a foreign attacker to bolster his squad.
Since joining Ahly in summer 2016, Maaloul became a cornerstone of Ahly's successes, amassing an impressive record of 51 goals and 83 assists in 287 appearances for the Red Devils.
During his time with Ahly, the 35-year-old Tunisian became a fan favorit thanks to his dedication and loyalty.
He will leave unmatched legacy after amassing 21 titles, including four CAF Champions League trophies, two CAF Super Cups, six Egyptian Premier League championships, five Egyptian Super Cups, and four Egypt Cup triumphs.
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