Incoming Al Ahly coach Jose Riveiro is reportedly set to lose one of the team's top stars before he takes charge of the club.
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The former Orlando Pirates coach is set to formally be appointed as Al Ahly's new coach this week after he announced his departure from the Buccaneers two weeks ago.
Riveiro was expected to take charge of the Red Devils next season, with the FIFA Club World Cup presenting his first challenge.
Ahead of his official appointment, the Vigo-born coach reportedly had talks with Al Ahly's star defender Rami Rabia, who is set to leave the club, this is according to Sport El Watan.
The arabic publication report that a source close to Riveiro said the coach had supposedly met with Rabia to discuss his future with the Red Giant. Riveiro is believed to be a big fan of the Egyptian international.
"Riveiro praised Rami Rabia, saying he’s one of the best defenders in the Egyptian league," the source said.
"He even said that among the defenders proposed to him for potential summer signings, Rami’s stats were better."
Riveiro's comments led the Al Ahly management team to hold final talks with the former Sporting CP defender in the hopes of convincing him to stay.
The club wanted the defender to stay on their terms, while he reportedly had high financial demands, leading to a breakdown in talks.
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Rabia is expected to leave the club at the end of the season.
