Al-Ahli could face transfer restrictions if Pusic is dismissed, Saudi journalist says

Al-Ahli are at risk of being placed under strict financial monitoring if they decide to dismiss head coach Marino Pusic during the forthcoming winter transfer window, according to Saudi journalist Abdulrahman Al-Thunayan.

The club are considering ending Pusic’s tenure following a run of poor results, with their latest setback a 6-1 defeat by Al-Shabab in the Roshn Saudi League.

Reports have already identified possible replacements for the Dutch coach. Among those linked with the job is German manager Oli Werner, the former RB Leipzig head coach who had also been considered for the position before Pusic’s appointment.

Speaking on the Nadina programme on MBC 1, Al-Thunayan said financial concerns were the only obstacle currently preventing Al-Ahli from dismissing Pusic.

He warned that, if the club went ahead with the decision despite its difficult financial situation, Al-Ahli could be subjected to strict financial monitoring.

That would mirror the position faced by their traditional rivals Al-Nassr during the previous summer transfer window. Al-Nassr were placed under strict financial monitoring and were consequently limited to signing only Portuguese forward Samu Costa from Spanish club Real Mallorca.

Pusic has overseen 18 matches since taking charge of the Jeddah-based side. Al-Ahli have won 11 of those games, drawn two and lost five.

The possibility of a managerial change comes as Al-Ahli continue their Roshn Saudi League campaign, with the financial consequences of dismissing Pusic now central to the club’s decision.