Jess Thorup is an ordinary coach – Former Egypt star Ahmed Fathi questions Danish trainer’s impact

Former Al Ahly SC and Egypt international Ahmed Fathi has labeled Danish tactician Jess Thorup as an ordinary coach, casting doubt about his impact and credentials.

The 56-year-old trainer joined the Egyptian giants in October 2025, signing a contract that will keep him at the club until 2028.

But the former defender has raised concerns about the capabilities of the Danish football manager, describing him an ordinary coach. For Fathi, he had wanted the club to maintain Emad El Nahhas.

“Up to now, I see Jess Thorup as an ordinary coach. From my point of view, he hasn’t shown anything that clearly sets him apart.” He told ON Sport.

The former right-back went further, suggesting that retaining former caretaker boss Emad El Nahhas might have been a better option for stability.

“I don’t think this will satisfy Al Ahly fans’ ambitions. Keeping Emad El Nahhas would have been better because, at that time, the team had a clear spirit on the pitch,” Fathi added.

Despite the criticism, Thorup has guided the Egyptian giants to the quarterfinal of the CAF Champions League and are also in contention for the Egyptian Premier League title this season.