Ceramica Cleopatra FC have announced that coach Ali Maher will remain in charge next season despite speculation linking him with a move to Pyramids FC.
The club released an official statement confirming that Maher’s contract remains fully valid and that there has been no breach in the agreement between either party.
The announcement comes after reports that Pyramids had identified the 52-year-old as one of the leading candidates to replace departing Croatian coach Krunoslav Jurcic.
Pyramids are currently searching for a new manager after deciding not to renew Jurcic’s contract, which expired at the end of the season.
Ceramica Move Quickly to End Speculation
Ali Maher’s name had emerged prominently among Egyptian coaching candidates linked with the Pyramids position, with reports suggesting that individuals close to the club’s management had contacted him regarding the role.
However, Ceramica Cleopatra moved swiftly to clarify the situation and publicly reaffirm their commitment to continuing the project under Maher’s leadership.
The club confirmed that the coach recently renewed his contract for an additional season, extending his stay until the summer of 2027 following a campaign in which Ceramica finished fourth in the Egyptian Premier League standings.
In its statement, the club stressed that Maher’s future “is not up for discussion”.
Ceramica also said that the contract extension reflected “the depth of the relationship between the two parties, and their endeavor to continue the ambitious project to achieve more successes during the next season, to enhance the club’s position in a manner befitting its aspirations to compete during the next season on all levels and in all tournaments.”
The statement appeared designed to end any uncertainty surrounding the coach’s future and reinforce stability ahead of the new campaign.
Pyramids Begin New Era After Jurcic Exit
Pyramids now face the task of appointing a new technical director after the departure of Jurcic, who oversaw one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.
The Croatian coach reportedly sent a farewell message to the players through WhatsApp after his contract officially came to an end.
During his time at the club, Jurcic guided Pyramids to several major achievements, including the African Champions League title, the African Super Cup and two Egyptian Cup trophies.
He also led the team to the semi-finals of the Intercontinental Cup after victories over Al Ahli Saudi FC and Auckland City FC.
His departure leaves a significant vacancy at a club that has increasingly established itself as one of the major forces in Egyptian and African football.
Ali Maher’s Impact at Ceramica
Maher took charge of Ceramica Cleopatra in February 2025 following previous coaching spells with Al Masry SC, Modern Sport FC, ENPPI SC and Smouha SC.
Since arriving at Ceramica, he has overseen a period of notable progress.
In 50 matches under his management, the team recorded 24 victories, alongside 9 draws and 17 defeats.
The club also secured the Egyptian Capital Cup title last season, adding silverware to an already encouraging campaign.
Ceramica’s decision to retain Maher suggests the club sees him as central to its long-term ambitions, particularly after achieving one of the strongest league finishes in its history.
While Pyramids continue their search for a successor to Jurcic, Ceramica have made it clear that one of the leading candidates will not be leaving anytime soon.
