Al Ahly’s management is dissatisfied with coach Jess Thorup and the team’s performances and results under his leadership. However, they remain powerless and cannot dismiss the Dane before the end of the current season.
Al Ahly suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat against Tala’ea El Gaish on Monday, dropping the Red Devils to third place. If Zamalek defeats Enppi, Thorup’s team will enter the decisive round of the title race six points behind the White Knights.
Fans have been calling for Thorup’s dismissal, especially since the team’s performance in the last five matches has fallen short of expectations, coming at a very difficult time both domestically and in the CAF Champions League.
According to Egyptian media reports, Thorup will remain in charge of Al Ahly regardless of what happens this season. This is because his contract stipulates that he will receive his full salary until 2027 in the event of a mid-season dismissal, meaning the Egyptian club would have to pay more than $3 million at that time.
However, if Thorup is dismissed at the end of the current season, Al Ahly will only pay him three months’ salary, approximately $500,000, a manageable sum that will not pose a financial burden on the club.
Overall, Thorup led Al Ahly in 28 matches across all competitions, achieving 14 wins, 8 draws, and 6 losses, including 4 in the League Cup.
Al Ahly exited the Egyptian Cup early under Thorup, who was appointed last October, after a surprising 2-1 defeat to Telecom Egypt.
Al Ahly will face Tunisian side Espérance Sportive de Tunis in the CAF Champions League in the next two weeks, before the decisive phase of the Egyptian Premier League begins after the international break.
