Veteran Tunisian defender Ali Maaloul has decided not to join Al Ahly for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, bringing uncertainty to his future with the Egyptian champions shortly after their record-extending league triumph.
The experienced left-back, who has been a pivotal figure at the club since joining in 2016, was seen in tears following Al Ahly’s emphatic 6-0 victory over Pharco at Cairo International Stadium on Monday night.
After the final whistle, Maaloul appeared emotional as he bid farewell to fans, fuelling speculation that his time at the club had come to an end.
According to sources cited by Kooora, Maaloul was informed by his agent that Al Ahly had no plans to renew his contract, which expires at the end of the current season.
In response, the 34-year-old made the decision to skip next month’s Club World Cup campaign, viewed by many as a significant tournament for the team.
Maaloul reportedly cleared out his locker at the Mokhtar El-Tetsh training ground on Monday evening and left for his home in 6th of October City, signalling a potential farewell.
Al Ahly’s sporting director Mohamed Youssef is said to have held a private meeting with the player during the team’s camp ahead of the Pharco match to explain the club’s stance.
While Maaloul listened and expressed gratitude for the club’s previous support, he reportedly remained sombre.
Club president Mahmoud El Khatib is expected to meet Maaloul in the coming hours in a final attempt to convince him to reconsider his decision and travel with the squad for the Club World Cup.
