Al Ahly set to part ways with Jess Thorup after disappointing season

Egyptian giants Al Ahly are reportedly set to part ways with Danish manager Jess Thorup at the end of the season, bringing an early end to his tenure at one of Africa’s biggest football clubs.

Thorup, who was appointed in October 2025 with high expectations surrounding his arrival, will reportedly take charge of his final match on Wednesday, May 20, when Al Ahly face Al Masry SC in the Egyptian Premier League.

The decision means the Danish tactician will leave after spending just one season in Cairo, far short of what many anticipated when he was handed the responsibility of leading the record African champions.

Thorup’s appointment was initially viewed as a bold move by Al Ahly as the club sought to maintain its dominance both domestically and on the continental stage. Known for his tactical discipline and experience in European football, the Dane arrived with a strong reputation and was expected to guide the Red Devils to another successful era.

However, the campaign quickly turned into a frustrating one for both the coach and the club.

One of the biggest disappointments came in the CAF Champions League, a competition where Al Ahly traditionally thrives. The Egyptian powerhouse, winners of the prestigious title a record 12 times, suffered an unexpected quarter-final exit, a result that intensified criticism from supporters and club officials alike.

For a club with Al Ahly’s pedigree and ambition, failure to reach the latter stages of the Champions League is often viewed as unacceptable. The early elimination raised serious questions about the team’s performances, tactical consistency, and ability to compete at the highest level under Thorup’s leadership.

Domestically, matters did not improve significantly. Al Ahly struggled to maintain the level of dominance fans have become accustomed to over the years. Inconsistency in the Egyptian Premier League saw the club fall into an uncomfortable battle for qualification to next season’s CAF Champions League rather than competing comfortably at the top of the table.

The pressure surrounding Thorup increased with every disappointing result, and speculation regarding his future intensified in recent weeks. Reports now suggest that the club’s hierarchy has decided a change is necessary as they prepare for a major rebuild ahead of next season.

Despite the difficult campaign, Thorup’s departure is expected to be handled respectfully, with the Danish coach still appreciated for his professionalism during a challenging period. Sources close to the club indicate that discussions regarding the separation have been calm and mutually understood.

Attention will now turn to who Al Ahly appoint as their next head coach. Managing the Cairo giants remains one of the most demanding jobs in African football, with enormous pressure to deliver trophies immediately and maintain the club’s historic status on the continent.

Several names are already believed to be under consideration as Al Ahly begin planning for the future. The club’s priority will be to return to the summit of African football and reclaim domestic dominance after a season that fell well below expectations.

For Jess Thorup, the experience in Egypt may not have unfolded as hoped, but the Danish manager is still expected to attract interest elsewhere due to his experience and previous success in European football.

As the curtain prepares to fall on his brief spell in Cairo, Wednesday’s clash against Al Masry could mark the end of a disappointing chapter for both Thorup and Al Ahly SC.