Former Egypt international Nader El-Sayed has attributed Al Ahly’s recent struggles to repeated managerial changes, arguing that the departure of Swiss coach Marcel Koller has triggered ongoing instability within the club.
Speaking on the On Sport channel, El-Sayed questioned the broader strategy behind frequent coaching changes at both Al Ahly SC and Zamalek SC, suggesting that such decisions rarely produce the intended results.
“What is the reason and goal of frequently changing coaches? Is the change only to win matches, or to achieve championships, or what exactly?” he said, raising concerns over the lack of long-term planning.
Limited impact of managerial changes
El-Sayed argued that while coaching changes can occasionally produce short-term improvements, they are largely ineffective in delivering sustained success. He emphasised that the majority of such decisions fail to achieve their objectives.
“Sometimes, and in a very small percentage of cases, changing the coach may make a real difference, but in about 80% of cases this change does not succeed in making the required difference. Rather, the frequent change of coaches represents a clear crisis, whether in Al-Ahly or Zamalek, and often leads to worsening the situation instead of improving it.”
His remarks highlight a growing concern about managerial turnover in Egyptian football, where clubs often react to poor results with swift changes in leadership rather than structural adjustments.
Koller departure seen as turning point
Focusing specifically on Al Ahly, El-Sayed pointed to the decision to part ways with Koller as a key factor behind the club’s current difficulties. He suggested that the move has disrupted stability and contributed to a period of uncertainty.
“From my point of view, Al-Ahly’s current problem is due to the decision to change Swiss coach Marcel Koller, which has caused a state of turmoil within the club until now.”
The comments indicate that, in his view, continuity at the managerial level may have provided a more stable platform for performance, rather than introducing further changes.
Player recruitment over managerial turnover
El-Sayed also outlined an alternative approach, arguing that strengthening squads through targeted signings is often more effective than replacing coaches. He pointed to Al Ittihad Alexandria Club as an example of relative stability.
“For example, we see that the technical staff at Al-Ittihad Alexandria is continuing, as the administration did not make a decision to let them go, but rather supported the team with a number of deals, which was reflected relatively positively on the performance. Therefore, strengthening the team with players is often much better than changing coaches.”
This comparison underscores his belief that investment in players can yield more consistent improvements than frequent managerial upheaval.
Financial implications of foreign appointments
El-Sayed concluded by addressing the financial consequences of managerial decisions, particularly the appointment of foreign coaches. He suggested that clubs should consider domestic alternatives when making changes.
“If we are not satisfied with the foreign coach and decide to let him go, he must be replaced by an Egyptian coach, because changing to another foreign coach will cost the club a lot of money.”
Stability over change remains key debate
El-Sayed’s comments reflect a broader debate within Egyptian football over the balance between stability and change. While managerial turnover remains common, his analysis suggests that continuity and strategic recruitment may offer a more sustainable path forward for clubs like Al Ahly.
