Shukri Al-Khatwi set to replace Zakaria Aboub at Olympique Safi

Olympique Safi are on the verge of appointing a new head coach following the dismissal of Zakaria Aboub, whose tenure came to an end after a string of disappointing results in the Botola Pro since the start of the season.

The club’s management has moved swiftly in search of stability, hoping to steer the team away from its current struggles. Olympique Safi find themselves rooted to the bottom of the league table with a points tally that falls far short of both internal ambitions and supporters’ expectations.

According to a source, an agreement has been reached in principle with Tunisian coach Shukri Al-Khatwi to take charge of the first team.

The move is seen as a decisive attempt to restore balance and inject renewed discipline into a side grappling with a difficult domestic campaign.

Negotiations between the two parties reportedly progressed significantly following discussions on Sunday evening, with the main contractual terms settled. An official announcement confirming Al-Khatwi’s appointment is expected in the coming hours or days.

Club officials are optimistic that the coaching change could mark a turning point. Olympique Safi currently sit at the foot of the standings with just five points, yet they remain eager to protect their continental ambitions and continue competing in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Al-Khatwi is expected to begin work immediately, focusing on rebuilding player confidence and calming an anxious fan base awaiting signs of revival. His résumé includes spells in the Tunisian league with Stade Tunisien, CS Hammam-Lif, US Ben Guerdane and Olympique Béja.

He has also coached clubs in Libya and Sudan, broadening his experience across the region.

Known for his tactical discipline, defensive organisation and emphasis on physical preparation, the Tunisian coach has built a reputation for managing teams battling relegation as well as those pushing for higher ambitions. Olympique Safi will be hoping that experience proves decisive in what is shaping up to be a crucial phase of their season.