Al Ahly drops interest in Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso

Mamelodi Sundowns have received a major boost after reports indicated that Egyptian giants Al Ahly are no longer pursuing head coach Miguel Cardoso.

Recent reports from North Africa suggested that Al Ahly were closely monitoring the Portuguese tactician following another impressive season at the helm of the Pretoria-based club.

Cardoso further enhanced his growing reputation on the continent after guiding Sundowns to CAF Champions League success, overcoming Moroccan side AS FAR Rabat across two legs in the final.

The Portuguese coach has emerged as one of Africa’s most highly regarded managers in recent years, having reached three consecutive CAF Champions League finals with different clubs.

His remarkable run began with Esperance de Tunis, whom he led to the final before repeating the feat with Sundowns and eventually lifting the prestigious trophy this season.

The 54-year-old’s achievements reportedly attracted interest from several top clubs, including Al Ahly, who are in the market for a new head coach ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

However, according to reports from El Captain, the Cairo-based club have decided against appointing either Cardoso or AS FAR Rabat coach Alexandre Santos as they continue their search for a successor to Danish manager Jess Torup.

Torup is expected to leave Al Ahly after a disappointing season in which the club failed to secure qualification for next season’s CAF Champions League.

The Egyptian powerhouse is believed to be prioritising candidates with previous coaching experience in the Middle East, a key factor that has shaped the club’s recruitment process.

As a result, Cardoso and fellow Portuguese coach Santos have reportedly fallen out of contention, easing concerns among Sundowns supporters over the possibility of losing their successful manager.