Jess Thorup starts new era for Al Ahly with surprise selections for Burundi trip

Al Ahly’s newly appointed Danish coach Jess Thorup led his first training session, unveiling a squad of 24 players for the upcoming CAF Champions League tie against Aigle Noir in Burundi.

For the first time since his injury, Mohammed Shoukry rejoins the squad, joined by Ahmed Abdeen and Mohammed Abdullah, fresh off their U-20 World Cup campaign in Chile.

Thorup’s long-awaited introduction to the squad was delayed three times, but he finally took charge at Mokhtar El-Tetsh Stadium ahead of the team’s departure on a chartered flight. International call-ups have reinvigorated the camp, bringing back Aliou Dieng, Ben Ramadan, Ashraf Bencherki, and Nejr Gradisar. Notably absent, however, are Ashraf Dari, Hussein El Shahat, Emam Ashour, and Karim Fouad, sidelined due to injuries or illness. Club sources report Shahat will require two months to recover, while Ashraf Dari and Ashour undergo further evaluation.

Despite logistical hurdles finding suitable accommodation near the Burundian venue, Al Ahly’s management secured enough hotel rooms and confirmed special flight arrangements. Meanwhile, club president Mahmoud El-Khatib honored former interim coach Emad El-Nahas for his service, as Thorup begins his tenure hoping for a strong start in Africa.