Tarek Dhiab: Matthias Jaissle’s departure behind Al-Ahli Saudi’s decline

Former Al-Ahli Saudi player Tarek Dhiab says Matthias Jaissle’s departure was a major factor in the club’s dramatic loss of form during the current season.

Jaissle left Al-Ahli Saudi several weeks ago after negotiations over a new contract reached an impasse. He subsequently moved to take charge of Newcastle United, with the departure reportedly requiring a payment of about 12m euros to the Asian champions.

Speaking to Saudi network Thmanyah, the former Tunisia international said Jaissle’s exit had significantly damaged Al-Ahli Saudi.

“I believe Matthias Jaissle’s departure caused serious harm to Al-Ahli, and it was one of the main reasons behind the change in the club’s season,” Dhiab said.

He added: “When your manager leaves just weeks before the season and several key players and important members of the squad also depart, those are extremely difficult circumstances.

“But I believe Jaissle’s departure in particular did Al-Ahli an injustice.”

Al-Ahli Saudi’s latest setback came on Friday, when they were beaten 6-1 by Al Shabab in round 12 of the Saudi Pro League.

The result further highlighted the team’s struggles during a campaign that has seen changes in both the dugout and squad. Dhiab argued that the timing of Jaissle’s departure made it especially damaging, coming shortly before the start of the season and alongside the loss of several significant players.

Al-Ahli Saudi are listed to face Al Sadd in the AFC Champions League Elite on 02 November 2026. Their Saudi Pro League schedule also includes a fixture involving Abha and Al Shabab on 05 November 2026.