A former Al Ahly star, Ahmed Abu Muslim, has expressed dissatisfaction over the club’s decision to appoint Jose Riveiro as their head coach ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup.
The Spaniard joined the Egyptian side on a two-year deal with an option of another year from Orlando Pirates.
Riveiro replaced Swiss gaffer Marcel Koller, who was sacked after failing to defend their CAF Champions League title.
Despite his impressive stint in the South African top flight, Abu Muslim says he does not have high hopes for the Egyptian giants under Riveiro’s guidance.
“I’m not convinced by this coach,” the former Al Ahly star told WinWin.
“He’s not a well-known name in the coaching arena, and Al Ahly fans were hoping to sign a big name to lead the team in a tournament as big as the Club World Cup.
“So far, he hasn’t shown anything that would reassure fans, so I’m not optimistic about the team’s future under his leadership.”
Abu Muslim also feels that Inter captain Lionel Messi will not have a big influence on the opening game.
“I don’t think Messi will pose a real threat in the match. He has passed the age that allows him to perform exceptionally, and he is no longer what he was before,” he added.
“It is true that his name is still big, but his influence on the field has become limited. The same applies to Cristiano Ronaldo, as neither of them is able to carry the team alone.”
Meanwhile, Jose Riveiro will officially begin his reign at the Club World Cup against Inter Miami on Sunday morning.
