There is a strong possibility that Ali Maaloul will continue his tenure at Al-Ahly until the end of the current season, despite earlier rumors suggesting his departure in January.
Media figure Mohamed Shabana discussed the situation in depth, offering insight into the factors affecting the defender’s future at the Egyptian football giant.
In his program From the Other Side, aired on Radio Shaabi FM, Shabana shed light on the complexities surrounding Maaloul’s position at the club.
The initial talks about the possibility of Maaloul leaving began after head coach Marcel Kohler expressed his desire to retain Percy Tau at Al-Ahly for the remainder of the season. Thi
s move was one of the key components in Kohler’s plans, alongside his intention to secure three new foreign signings during the ongoing winter transfer window.
Shabana explained that Kohler’s decision to keep Tau, combined with the presence of Moroccan duo Attiyat Allah and Dari, has left only two available spots for foreign players.
Given that Reda Selim’s name had already been removed from the list of foreign players, the only viable way to accommodate a third foreign signing was to part ways with Maaloul, according to Shabana’s analysis.
However, despite these developments, Shabana emphasized that Maaloul’s chances of staying at Al-Ahly remain strong, particularly if the club is unable to secure the third foreign player it seeks during the transfer window.
In that case, the Tunisian international would likely remain with the club until the season’s end, avoiding a mid-season exit.
Maaloul, who has been an integral part of Al-Ahly’s defence, continues to be a subject of speculation among fans and pundits alike.
His experience and contribution to the team make him a valuable asset, but the club’s strategic moves in the transfer market could lead to a shift in the squad.
As the January transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on Al-Ahly’s dealings, particularly in the foreign player market, to determine whether Maaloul will remain or if he will eventually make way for new arrivals.
