Ruud Krol Appointed Head Coach of Al Ahli Tripoli
Dutch coach Ruud Krol has returned to North African football, this time taking the reins at Libyan club Al Ahli Tripoli. The club confirmed the appointment late last week, announcing that the former Tunisia national team boss has signed a one-year contract.
Krol, who left Espérance de Tunis just four months ago, will officially begin his duties on 1 November. His decision to join the 11-time Libyan champions comes after reported talks with Moroccan side Raja Casablanca in recent weeks.
Despite ongoing political instability in Libya, the 65-year-old tactician has expressed confidence in the project and insists preparations will not be affected. “We will begin training in Tunisia, followed by camps in Dubai and Cairo,” Krol said. “In Tripoli, things are calm. Even national team coach Clemente recently held a training camp there.”
The move marks Krol’s latest chapter in a long and varied coaching career across Africa and the Middle East. A former Dutch international and World Cup finalist in the 1970s, Krol has previously managed clubs and national teams in Egypt, Tunisia, and South Africa, where he enjoyed notable success with Orlando Pirates.
His tenure with Espérance included a domestic league title, and he briefly guided Tunisia’s national team on an interim basis during a crucial period in their World Cup qualifying campaign.
Al Ahli Tripoli will be looking to Krol’s extensive experience to restore their domestic dominance and strengthen their presence in continental competitions. The club has a rich history in Libyan football but has struggled in recent seasons due to disruptions from the country’s political situation.
The appointment is being seen as a statement of intent by the Tripoli-based side, signalling their ambition to return to the top tier of African football under a seasoned and tactically astute coach.
Krol’s calm demeanour and methodical approach are expected to bring stability, while his reputation for discipline and development will be key as Al Ahli Tripoli look to rebuild both on and off the pitch.
The Dutchman will be tasked with navigating a challenging domestic environment, with much of the Libyan Premier League activity still being impacted by ongoing security concerns. Nonetheless, his prior success in complex settings could prove vital.
As Krol prepares to embark on this new journey, the footballing spotlight will return to Tripoli—where one of Africa’s most experienced foreign coaches will attempt to steer a historic club back to glory.
