Ali Maaloul’s long and decorated spell with Al Ahly is heading toward its final whistle, with the club set to move on from the Tunisian left-back once his contract ends this season.
A source close to the club confirmed that new manager Jose Riveiro has expressed doubts about keeping Maaloul in his plans for the future. While Maaloul has been a fan favourite and a regular starter for years, the new coach is reportedly reshaping his squad ahead of the Club World Cup.
“There are attempts with the Spanish coach to include the Tunisian centre-back in the team’s list for the Club World Cup,” the source revealed, though Riveiro has pushed for a trimmed squad.
“Maaloul will not stay at Al Ahly next season,” the source added, noting Riveiro’s request to travel with fewer than the initially planned 35 players.
Al Ahly president Mahmoud Al-Khatib is set to meet Maaloul to discuss his future, potentially in a non-playing role. Despite his exit as a player, Maaloul is said to be keen on remaining part of the club.
