Egyptian giants Al Ahly are searching for a new coach after South African manager Pitso Mosimane left his position with immediate effect after two years in charge of the Cairo-based club.
Al Ahly released a statement on Monday saying Mosimane had requested to leave despite the club’s hierarchy wanting him to stay on in light of his achievements.
Mosimane’s stunning departure comes just about three months after he signed a two-year contract extension with the club which would have seen him remain at the helm until at least 2024.
The 57-year-old enjoyed a successful spell at Al Ahly winning the CAF Champions League and CAF Super Cup twice, the Egyptian Premier League and the Egyptian Cup in addition to securing two third-place finishes at the FIFA Club World Cup.
Despite his success, there had been speculation recently surrounding his future at Al Ahly with some reports claiming he was living on borrowed time at the club.
Mosimane, who left together with his technical team, thanked the management of Al Ahly for allowing him to fulfill a dream by coaching the “biggest club on the continent” and the fans for rallying behind him.
“To the Board, the management and the players, thank you for trusting my instincts and bringing my wishes to life. Without you, none of these would have been possible.”
“To the red nation, the 70 million Al Ahly fans that have stood by me throughout this journey, you have truly inspired me. I have never felt so loved and valued so far away from home. Your passion for football is something I will take with me wherever I go and use it for my inspiration. Shukran.”
Samy Komsan will take charge of Al Ahly for the upcoming games with the club currently in third place in the league seven points behind leaders and bitter rivals Zamalek but with four games in hand.
(Story compiled with assistance from wire reports)
