Al Ahly announced the appointment of 56-year-old Moroccan coach Hussein Ammouta as their new head coach on June 15, 2026. Ammouta signed a two-year contract with the Egyptian giant following the departure of Danish coach Jess Thorup about 10 days earlier [1, 2].
Thorup had taken charge in October 2025 and began his tenure with success by winning the Egyptian Super Cup, a 2-0 victory over rivals Zamalek [1, 2]. However, the club’s league campaign faltered, with Al Ahly finishing third and missing out on qualification for next season’s CAF Champions League. This disappointing outcome led to a mutual agreement to part ways early in June 2026 [1, 2].
Ammouta brings strong African football credentials to Al Ahly. He led Morocco to victory in the African Nations Championship in 2021 and won the CAF Champions League with Wydad Casablanca in 2017. Additionally, Ammouta won the Qatari league title while managing Al Sadd, highlighting his experience in different competitive environments [1, 2].
The club is expected to look to Ammouta to restore its domestic and continental dominance after a season below expectations. Ammouta’s contract runs through to mid-2028, giving him time to implement his vision at Al Ahly [1, 2].
Fans and analysts will watch closely to see how the Moroccan tactician adapts to the pressures of leading Egypt’s most successful club. His appointment marks the start of the club’s preparation for the upcoming season and a push to return to the CAF Champions League.