With a host of names recently linked to Al Ahly, it now appears that a frontrunner has emerged to replace the departed coach, Jose Riveiro.
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The Red Devils are on the hunt for a new head coach after confirming on Sunday that they had parted ways with the Spaniard.
The announcement came just a day after their 2-0 defeat to Pyramids FC — their third loss in four league matches this season — which has left the record CAF Champions League winners languishing in 13th place in the Egyptian Premier League and without a permanent manager.
Emad El-Nahhas will once again serve as interim coach, his second such spell in three months, while the club seeks a long-term replacement. Although names like Xavi Hernandez and Pitso Mosimane have been linked, neither appears likely to take the reins at the Cairo International Stadium.
Instead, according to Youm7, Al Ahly are in talks with Portuguese tactician Paulo Bento.
The report claims discussions have already begun with the 56-year-old regarding both his financial demands and technical vision before a final decision is made. Bento is a well-travelled coach with experience in Europe, South America and Asia, though he has never worked in Africa.
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Bento’s most recent role was with the United Arab Emirates national team, where he coached between 2023 and 2025 before leaving the job in March. Should he be appointed, he will be aiming to emulate the success of fellow Portuguese coach Manuel Jose, one of Al Ahly’s most celebrated managers.
