Tunisian left-back Ali Maaloul delivered an emotional goodbye just as Al Ahly secured their 45th Egyptian League title with a thumping 6-0 win over Pharco at Cairo Stadium.
Tears in his eyes, Maaloul waved to fans in what appeared to be his final appearance in the famous red shirt. The defender, whose contract ends this season, has reportedly been told the club won’t offer him a renewal.
According to Kooora, Maaloul has decided not to join Al Ahly’s squad for the upcoming Club World Cup in the United States. He cleared out his locker at Mokhtar El-Tetsh Stadium and left for his home in Sixth of October City soon after the final whistle.
Mohamed Youssef, the club’s sporting director, had earlier tried to reassure Maaloul, reminding him of the club’s faith in him when his contract was last extended, despite opposition from former coach Marcel Koller.
Maaloul thanked the management but remained silent. A decisive meeting with club president Mahmoud Al-Khatib is expected within hours.
