Tensions have emerged within Al Ahly SC after comments by head coach Jess Thorup reportedly caused concern among members of the club’s leadership.
The issue follows Al Ahly’s 3-0 win over ENPPI SC in the Egyptian Premier League, after which Thorup made remarks about team selection and the internal structure of decision-making at the club.
According to local reports, several members of the board of directors were dissatisfied with the nature of the coach’s statements, describing them as unusual and an unnecessary exposure of internal matters.
Speaking after the match, Thorup emphasised that he retains full control over team selection, insisting that no external party influences his decisions. His comments appeared aimed at reinforcing his authority, but they also drew attention to how responsibilities are distributed within the club.
The Danish coach suggested that club president Mahmoud El Khatib is not directly involved in football operations, indicating instead that key roles are handled by figures including Yassin Mansour and Sayed Abdel-Hafiz.
Thorup also addressed transfer dealings, revealing that while he had communicated his requirements in terms of player profiles and positions during the previous transfer window, final decisions ultimately rested with the club’s hierarchy. He indicated that some of his requests were not fully implemented, with assurances given that the same officials would oversee future transfer activity.
The remarks have reportedly unsettled sections of the club’s leadership, though sources suggest the football committee currently lacks the authority to take disciplinary action against the coach.
Despite the growing scrutiny, Thorup made it clear he has no intention of stepping down from his role.
“I am not someone who runs away or gives up,” he said, adding that any decision regarding his departure would have to come from the club rather than himself.
The situation unfolds at a critical stage of the season, with Al Ahly firmly in the title race. The victory over ENPPI strengthened their position, but they remain third in the standings with 50 points, trailing leaders Zamalek SC on 53 and second-placed Pyramids FC on 51.
While results on the pitch continue to keep Al Ahly in contention, attention is increasingly turning to developments off it. The internal dynamics within the club could prove significant as the season approaches its decisive phase.
For now, the focus remains split between maintaining momentum in the title race and managing a situation that has introduced an element of uncertainty behind the scenes.
