Ahmed Ateef says Marino Pusic would be a better choice than Thomas Letsch for Al Shabab

Ahmed Ateef has defended Al Ahli manager Marino Pusic, saying the Dutchman is a better coach than Al Shabab boss Thomas Letsch despite his side’s 6-1 defeat in the Roshn Saudi League.

Al Shabab recorded their biggest win over Al Ahli in the match at SHG Arena in Riyadh on Friday, with the result coming in the 12th round of the competition.

Speaking on the Dorina Gair programme, former Al Shabab and Saudi Arabia midfielder Ateef said it was too soon to judge Pusic’s work at Al Ahli.

“I said before the last international break that it would be difficult to assess Pusic at this early stage of the season,” Ateef said.

“To be honest, in my view, he took over in difficult circumstances.”

Saudi presenter Khalid Al-Shenaif then responded sarcastically: “Then he should manage Al Shabab instead of [Thomas] Letsch.”

Ateef replied: “For me, he is better than Letsch.”

The comments came despite Letsch overseeing an impressive run with Al Shabab this season, particularly since the previous international break.

Al Shabab have played four matches since the break, winning three and drawing one.

Pusic has been in charge of Al Ahli since the beginning of the current campaign, having succeeded German manager Matthias Jaissle.

He has led the club in 17 matches, recording 11 victories, five defeats and one draw.

Al Ahli’s loss to Al Shabab leaves Pusic facing further scrutiny, but Ateef maintained that the circumstances surrounding the manager’s appointment should be considered before his performance is judged.