Al Ahly, a contender in the Egyptian Premier League, announced today (Thursday) that it has officially terminated its contract with Danish coach Jess Thorup by mutual consent, after the team finished the season in third place and exited the CAF Champions League.
The club stated on its official website: “Thorup has signed a financial settlement after receiving all his dues, in accordance with the terms of his contract, which was set to expire on 30-6-2026.”
Al Ahly had appointed the Danish coach in October of last year on a two-and-a-half‑year deal, succeeding Spaniard José Ribeiro.
The club had parted ways with Ribeiro on August 31 following a league defeat to rivals Pyramids.
Although Thorup began his tenure by winning the Egyptian Super Cup, defeating Zamalek 2–0, the end of the season did not match that early success.
Al Ahly finished the league in third place, three points behind champions Zamalek and one point behind second‑placed Pyramids, meaning the club will miss out on the CAF Champions League next season and will instead compete in the CAF Confederation Cup.
The team exited the CAF Champions League after losing 4–2 on aggregate to Tunisia’s Esperance in the quarterfinals.
Earlier today, Al Ahly also announced the departure of Walid Salah El-Din from his position as the club’s Director of Football.
In its statement, the club said it “appreciates the great efforts made by Captain Walid Salah El-Din throughout his tenure, and his commitment to performing his duties in a manner that serves the best interests of Al Ahly.”
Walid Salah El-Din had assumed the role in September of last year during the tenure of interim coach Emad El-Nahas.
The club also extended its thanks to Adel Mostafa, Thorup’s assistant, and Walid Soliman, head of the youth sector.
