A former Al Ahly official has launched a scathing rant about the Red Devils decision to hire Jose Riveiro amid his difficult start at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Riveiro's side remains winless in the tournament, having recorded a draw against Inter Miami and suffered a defeat to Brazilian giants Palmeiras in their opening two Group A fixtures.
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The Red Devils will be hoping to turn their fortunes around in their final group-stage match against FC Porto. Currently sitting at the bottom of Group A with just one point, Ahly must secure a victory to keep their hopes of reaching the Round of 16 alive.
Ahly's advancement to the next stage will also depend on the outcome of the match between Palmeiras and Inter Miami, who have accumulated four points, respectively.
Since joining the club from Orlando Pirates in May, Riveiro has faced growing criticism, with several club legends questioning his suitability for the role.
The latest to do so is Mohsen Saleh, a former head of Al Ahly’s planning committee, who has expressed doubts about the Spanish tactician’s readiness to lead the club, citing his lack of a championship-winning track record as a major concern.
"When I was asked about my opinion of the technical director of Al-Ahly Club, I said that they shouldn't have hired a coach who works in Africa, because when Africa hires a coach, he is at the fifth or sixth level," Saleh said, per Btolat.com.
"We want a third or second-level coach who has previously won championships, has a strong resume, and is well-known. He can therefore successfully lead the team. However, since Mahmoud El Khatib and the Football Committee met and decided to appoint him, they will certainly have inquired about him carefully, and we wish him the best.
"It's like when someone asks you: What would you like for your son or brother? Of course, you would like the best in the world for them, and I hope Al Ahly is coached by the best coach in the world, but why would you sign a coach who doesn't have a strong resume or history? All his statements make you feel like he's amazed by his presence at Al Ahly.
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"It's a good thing that he feels amazed when he's leading a big club like Al-Ahly, but facial expressions and unspoken language reveal a lot. When you look at anyone's face, you can sense their feelings. From my point of view, Riveiro's facial expressions reveal him. Even during matches, I don't see any clear positives from him on the technical side," he added.
"I wasn't satisfied with the decision to sign Jose Riveiro , but at the same time, I can't judge him now, as he faces a huge challenge and difficult circumstances."
