Fresh tensions have reportedly emerged inside Al Ahly SC following comments suggesting former coach Hossam El Badry could be close to returning to the club as head coach.
The controversy centres around statements made by Ibrahim Al-Munisi, editor-in-chief of Al-Qalaa Al-Hamra magazine, who claimed during an appearance on MBC Egypt 2 that discussions were progressing regarding the future leadership of the club’s football team.
According to Al-Munisi, there was “an almost complete agreement that the national coach will be the man of the next stage in Al-Ahly.”
He further added: “Hossam El Badry is close to returning to Al Ahly club to succeed the team’s current coach, Yes Torop.”
The remarks quickly generated reaction inside the club and reportedly reached current Al Ahly manager Jess Thorup through individuals close to him.
Reports indicate the Danish coach was angered by suggestions that the club could already be discussing a replacement while he remains in charge of the team. Thorup is currently leading Al Ahly during a critical stage of the domestic campaign, with the Egyptian giants still fighting to improve their league position before the end of the season.
The situation is understood to have escalated further internally, with Al Ahly vice-president Yassin Mansour reportedly reacting strongly to Al-Munisi’s comments.
According to a source within the club, Mansour contacted the journalist directly in what was described as a heated phone conversation. The report claims the vice-president expressed significant anger over the statements and criticised the editor-in-chief for publicly discussing sensitive matters linked to the club’s coaching situation.
The source added that Mansour’s frustration was partly linked to Al-Munisi’s official connection to Al Ahly. As an employee of the club, his comments could potentially be interpreted externally as reflecting Al Ahly’s official position rather than personal analysis or media speculation.
That concern reportedly became even more significant because of fears the issue could create legal complications if Thorup and his representatives viewed the comments as evidence of negotiations taking place behind the scenes while he remains under contract.
The developments come during a sensitive period for Al Ahly, where pressure has intensified both on and off the pitch following an inconsistent domestic season. The club, traditionally one of Africa’s most dominant football institutions, has faced growing scrutiny over performances and decision-making as the Egyptian Premier League campaign approaches its conclusion.
Hossam El Badry remains a familiar figure within Al Ahly’s history, having previously enjoyed successful spells with the club and won multiple titles during his managerial career. His name continues to carry weight among sections of the fan base whenever coaching changes are discussed.
However, the latest reports have exposed growing tension surrounding the current technical situation and the handling of internal communication at the club.
Despite the speculation, Al Ahly have not issued any official statement regarding Thorup’s future or the possibility of appointing a new manager.
For now, attention remains focused on whether the situation will affect stability inside the dressing room as the club attempts to navigate a crucial stage of the season.
