Al Ahly set sights on Bruno Lage as top coaching target amid managerial search

Egyptian giants Al Ahly have identified Portuguese coach Bruno Lage as their leading candidate for the vacant head coach position and are actively progressing talks to secure his appointment.

The Cairo-based club are in the market for a new manager following the mutual termination of their agreement with Danish tactician Jess Thorup after a disappointing spell.

The decision came in the wake of a season that fell below expectations, with Al Ahly failing to secure qualification for the CAF Champions League and also missing out on the Egyptian Premier League title, which was claimed by rivals Zamalek SC.

Club officials are reportedly keen to stabilise the technical leadership ahead of a crucial rebuilding phase, with Lage, a former Wolverhampton and Benfica boss, emerging as the preferred option due to his European experience and tactical profile.

However, sources indicate that negotiations remain at an early stage, and no agreement has yet been reached.

Should discussions with Lage break down, Al Ahly are expected to shift focus to another Portuguese manager, Carlos Carvalhal, who is also highly regarded within the club’s recruitment circle.

In addition, former Netherlands international Mark van Bommel and South African coach Miguel Cardoso—currently in charge of Mamelodi Sundowns—have previously been linked with the role, reflecting Al Ahly’s broad search for a high-profile replacement.

The club’s hierarchy is expected to intensify discussions in the coming days as they look to finalise a new head coach ahead of the next competitive cycle.