The details of an important meeting between newly appointed Al Ahly head coach Jose Riveiro and club president Mahmoud El-Khatib have now been revealed.
Following the club’s early exit from the expanded 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, speculation mounted that El-Khatib would sit down with the Spanish tactician to discuss the way forward.
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The Red Devils were eliminated in the group stage of the prestigious tournament still going on in the United States, having failed to secure a win in their three matches.
Ahly opened their campaign with a resilient performance, holding Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami to a goalless draw. Despite that promising start, they suffered a 2-0 loss to Brazilian giants Palmeiras and were then held to a dramatic 4-4 draw by FC Porto in a thrilling final group match.
The tournament marked Riveiro’s debut in competitive action since taking charge of the Egyptian powerhouse in May, following his successful stint with South Africa’s Orlando Pirates.
Given the high expectations from fans and the club board members of the 12-time CAF Champions League winners, concerns were raised over his immediate future after the underwhelming results.
However, according to respected Egyptian sports journalist Ahmed Shobeir, the meeting between El-Khatib and Riveiro was not related to the coach’s future.
Instead, discussions reportedly focused on squad development, upcoming domestic challenges, and long-term planning for domestic and continental success.
While pressure remains high at a club with Ahly’s pedigree, Riveiro retains the board’s confidence, according to Shobeir.
"Yesterday at Al Ahly, there was a meeting between Captain Mahmoud El Khatib and Jose Riveiro, in the presence of Mohamed Youssef," Shobier said per Almasry Alyoum.
"El Khatib gave Riveiro and Youssef great support, and told them that he has great confidence in them and that they will lead the team to an exceptional season for Al Ahly. They also told El Khatib, 'We promise you that this year will be a great year'.
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"We have agreed on a preparation period for the new season, which will most likely take place in Spain and will include two friendly matches against two major teams."
"Riveiro asked for players, yes, he asked for new deals, but he told Al-Khatib that the front half doesn't need anything, it's perfect, but the lower half, yes, from him, yes, from Yani, and he immediately requested, before the camp, to sign a central defender, a left back, and a right back."
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