Al Ahly's former head of scouting has now revealed why Monnapule Saleng's proposed move to the Egyptian giants never materialised.
Hany Ramzy, Al Ahly's ex-head of scouting, has confirmed there was genuine interest in signing the Orlando Pirates star.
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The South African winger has seen his career stall during the 2024/25 season, having been largely frozen out of the team throughout the campaign.
The reasons for his exclusion remain unclear, with neither the club nor former manager Jose Riveiro offering any explanation as to why Saleng was sidelined.
Saleng himself has remained silent on the issue, leaving room for speculation in the media.
Despite this, it has now emerged that Al Ahly were seriously considering signing the 27-year-old, as he was recommended by their then-head of scouting.
Speaking on the Kora Talks podcast on YouTube, Ramzy explained: "There were names I strongly believed Al Ahly should have signed.
"There’s a player in South Africa, similar to Percy Tau in playing style, but faster and with fantastic skills. His name is Saleng, and he plays for Orlando Pirates.
"This recommendation was made a season and a half ago. We felt he was an excellent player.
"Marcel Koller watched him and expressed admiration — but again, no decision was taken, and the deal never materialised.”
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By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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