Al Ahly president Mahmoud El-Khatib has held a successful meeting with head coach Jose Riveiro following their elimination from the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup.
The Egyptian side suffered an early exit from the tournament after drawing 4-4 in their final group game against FC Porto.
The tournament marked Riveiro’s debut in competitive action since taking charge of the Egyptian powerhouse in May.
Given the high expectations from fans and the club board members of the 12-time CAF Champions League winners, concerns were raised over his immediate future after the underwhelming results.
However, according to Egyptian sports journalist Ahmed Shobeir, the meeting between El-Khatib and Riveiro was not related to the coach’s future.
Instead, discussions reportedly focused on squad development, upcoming domestic challenges, and long-term planning for domestic and continental success.
While pressure remains high at a club with Ahly’s pedigree, Riveiro retains the board’s confidence, according to Shobeir.
“Yesterday at Al Ahly, there was a meeting between Captain Mahmoud El Khatib and Jose Riveiro, in the presence of Mohamed Youssef,” Shobier said per Almasry Alyoum.
“El Khatib gave Riveiro and Youssef great support, and told them that he has great confidence in them and that they will lead the team to an exceptional season for Al Ahly. They also told El Khatib, ‘We promise you that this year will be a great year’.
“We have agreed on a preparation period for the new season, which will most likely take place in Spain and will include two friendly matches against two major teams.
“Riveiro asked for players, yes, he asked for new deals, but he told Al-Khatib that the front half doesn’t need anything, it’s perfect, but the lower half, yes, from him, yes, from Yani, and he immediately requested, before the camp, to sign a central defender, a left back, and a right back.”
Ahly opened their campaign with a resilient performance, holding Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami to a goalless draw. Despite that promising start, they suffered a 2-0 loss to Brazilian giants Palmeiras.
