Former striker says he was “saddened” by departure but insists he would not plead for opportunities
Aliou Badji has spoken candidly about his departure from Al Ahly SC, admitting disappointment over how his time at the club ended while maintaining that he remained professional throughout.
The Senegalese forward, who left the Cairo side in January 2021 to join MKE Ankaragücü before moving to Amiens SC later that year, said he had hoped to leave a lasting impression during his spell with the African giants.
Speaking to ON Sport Max, Badji said: “I am sad about the way I left Al Ahly.”
Unfulfilled ambitions despite promising start
Badji arrived at Al Ahly during a turbulent period marked by the global Covid-19 pandemic and managerial changes. He initially worked under Rene Weiler before the Swiss coach’s departure, after which Pitso Mosimane took charge.
Reflecting on that transition, Badji said: “I came during the spread of Corona and Rene Weiler left, to work under Pitso Mosimane for a short period and then leave.”
The striker suggested that his opportunities diminished following the change in leadership, despite making a positive contribution earlier.
He added: “I played more with Weiler, and sometimes I scored goals.”
During his time at the club, Badji made 25 appearances, scoring four goals and providing eight assists—figures that point to a role that was developing, even if not fully realised.
Professional stance amid frustration
Addressing his relationship with Mosimane, Badji emphasised his respect for the coach’s authority, even during periods when he was left out of the team.
He said: “I work professionally and respect the coach’s decisions, and I was always present. I didn’t go to the coach to ask him why he was doing that, and I was very saddened by my exclusion.”
Despite his frustration, Badji made it clear that he chose not to challenge decisions or seek explanations, preferring instead to maintain a low profile within the squad.
He continued: “I didn’t speak to anyone at Al Ahly. I don’t like to talk too much. I stay where I am. I won’t beg anyone to include me in the matches. I endured that and dealt professionally with this situation until the end.”
Success amid personal disappointment
Although his individual journey at Al Ahly ended sooner than expected, Badji was part of a highly successful period for the club. During his tenure, he contributed to a squad that secured the domestic league title, the Egyptian Cup, and the CAF Champions League.
Those achievements underline the collective success he experienced, even if his personal ambitions at the club remained only partially fulfilled.
Continuing career in Turkey
Now playing for Sivasspor, Badji has continued to build his career. This season, he has featured in 21 matches, scoring four goals and registering one assist.
Reflection without regret over principles
Badji’s reflections highlight a player who remains disappointed by how his time at Al Ahly concluded but steadfast in his professional values. While he may feel his potential at the club was not fully realised, his refusal to compromise his principles remains a defining aspect of his account.
