Arne Slot turns down Al Ahli approach as former Liverpool manager prioritises major European league return

Arne Slot has decided against taking charge of Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia, with the former Liverpool manager instead intent on returning to one of Europe’s leading leagues, according to reports.

The Dutch coach, who left Liverpool at the end of last season, had been identified by Al Ahli as a leading candidate to succeed Matthias Jaissle, amid widespread reports in Saudi and European media that the German is on the verge of departing.

Jaissle is understood to have submitted his resignation on Thursday in order to take over at Newcastle United next season, replacing his former coach Eddie Howe. Newcastle have yet to make any official announcement.

Al Ahli interest rebuffed

Saudi media reports said Al Ahli’s hierarchy placed Slot at the top of their shortlist to replace Jaissle for the next campaign, alongside other names including Portuguese coach Vitor Pereira.

However, Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that Slot has no intention of accepting the Al Ahli job at this stage. Romano also stated that the Dutchman is not considering national team roles, despite approaches from several federations since he left Liverpool.

In a post on X, Romano added that Slot’s priority is to return to a major European league and that he is prepared to wait for the right opportunity.

Slot’s recent record

Slot departed Liverpool at the end of last season after two years in charge at Anfield. During his first campaign with the club, he led Liverpool to the Premier League title, ending a five-year wait for the English crown.

He left Merseyside having overseen two full seasons as head coach, with his achievements in England thought to be a key reason why he remains in demand among leading European clubs.

Jaissle’s success at Al Ahli

Jaissle has spent three seasons with Al Ahli, having been appointed in 2023 to succeed South African coach Pitso Mosimane.

During his time in Jeddah, Jaissle guided Al Ahli to two titles in the AFC Champions League Elite and also delivered the Saudi Super Cup, ending a nine-year trophy drought for the club in that competition.

Al Ahli now face the task of identifying an alternative candidate to replace Jaissle, after Slot’s stance effectively ruled him out of contention. The club have not commented publicly on the situation, and no decision on Jaissle’s successor has yet been confirmed.