'Stronger resume' - Al Ahly warned against appointing Riveiro

by Austin Ditlhobolo

Thursday May 22, 2025. 11:49

Al Ahly legend Mahmoud Aboul-Dahab expressed his concerns about the soon-to-be appointed new head coach, Jose Riveiro.

The 49-year-old tactician recently parted ways with Orlando Pirates, having spent three successful seasons with the South African giants.

Riveiro led the Buccaneers to five major trophies and guided the team to the 2024/25 CAF Champions League semi-finals.

The Spaniard is now expected to take charge of Africa’s biggest football club, and Aboul-Dahab has criticised the appointment of the former Inter Turku coach.

“I saw Rivero when he was with the South African side, Orlando Pirates, and he performed well,” El-Dahab said, per Almasryalyoum.com.

“I believe Al Ahly deserved a coach with a stronger resume, especially considering they earned a spot in the 2025 Club World Cup. Al Ahly and Zamalek are clubs that would make any coach proud.

“I wish him success at Al Ahly in the coming period, but in my view, this appointment may not be the best possible choice.”

Riveiro will be in charge of Al Ahly at next month’s 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the USA, where they will face Brazil’s Palmeiras, FC Porto of Portugal and American side Inter Miami.