Former Tunisia international Radhi Jaidi believes Al Ahly made a mistake by allowing Ali Maaloul to leave, insisting the experienced defender still has the quality to make a significant contribution at the highest level.
Jaidi praised his compatriot’s footballing ability and tactical understanding, saying he would welcome the opportunity to work with the left-back at any club he manages. He also pointed to Maaloul’s return to form after a serious Achilles tendon injury as evidence of his professionalism and determination.
Speaking on Egyptian television channel Al-Nahar, the former Tunisia defender said Maaloul offers more than defensive qualities, highlighting his attacking contribution and ability to provide different solutions during matches.
Jaidi described the player as a professional who understands how to manage difficult situations in his career. He cited Maaloul’s recovery from the Achilles tendon injury, followed by his return to impressive performances and international football, as an example of his character.
The former Esperance coach also questioned Al Ahly’s decision not to extend the defender’s contract. He said the Egyptian club had made an error by failing to retain a player whose performances continue to demonstrate his value.
Jaidi acknowledged reports that Al Ahly are looking to refresh their squad and bring in replacements as part of efforts to renew the team. However, he believes Maaloul remains capable of offering an important contribution despite the club’s plans for change.
Jaidi backs Club Africain to reach Champions League quarter-finals
Jaidi also discussed the CAF Champions League group featuring Club Africain, Zamalek, Mouloudia of Algeria and Tanzania’s Young Africans.
He described the section as a particularly demanding one, arguing that all four clubs have enough quality to compete for a place in the quarter-finals. In his view, the strength of the teams involved makes it difficult to identify clear favourites, with the group matches likely to be closely contested.
The Tunisian believes Club Africain have shown signs of returning to their previous level after winning the Tunisian league title last season and securing qualification for the Champions League group stage.
He hopes the club can carry that progress into the continental competition and secure a place in the knockout rounds. However, he warned that their task would not be straightforward, given the quality of their opponents.
Jaidi also highlighted the advantage Egyptian clubs enjoy when playing at Cairo Stadium, where strong support from their supporters can make a significant difference. He believes that atmosphere will add another challenge for visiting teams, particularly in the matches involving Zamalek.
The former defender said the Zamalek-Al Ahly match would be especially difficult because of the influence of the home crowd at the Cairo venue.
Despite his previous connection with Esperance, Club Africain’s Tunisian rivals, Jaidi made clear where his national loyalties lie when discussing the group.
Jaïdi said: “As a Tunisian, I hope Club Africain qualifies, even though I played for Espérance, but my emotion as a Tunisian leads me to express my desire for my country’s team to advance.”
He nevertheless acknowledged that reaching the quarter-finals would require considerable work from the Club Africain coaching staff and players.
Jaidi stressed that qualification would depend on commitment, preparation and hard work, with the difficulty of the group leaving little room for mistakes.
