Salah Eldin: Al Ahly players are the best in Africa, we trust in fans’ support
Newly appointed Al Ahly Director of Football Walid Salah Eldin said he is proud to take on a role previously held by some of the club’s most iconic figures, and called on fans to back the technical staff as they work to restore the team’s dominance.
“Working in any position at Al Ahly is a great honour. As a coaching staff, we are committed to making every sacrifice and giving maximum effort to make our fans proud,” Salah Eldin said. “We are used to their loyal support, and we count on it now more than ever.”
He thanked fans for what he described as an outpouring of love and support following his appointment.
“I’ve received countless messages and phone calls from inside and outside Egypt. I can’t thank the fans enough,” he added.
Salah Eldin confirmed that Mahmoud El-Khatib, Al Ahly’s president and head of football operations, had placed full confidence in the new coaching team, granting them the authority they need to steer the club forward. El-Khatib urged the staff to remain focused, committed, and united during this critical phase.
With experience managing several clubs, Salah Eldin said he is well prepared to enforce accountability and recognise efforts as needed.
“This stage requires unity, shared responsibility and hard work to reach our goals.”
He acknowledged the immense pressure that comes with working at Al Ahly, where only winning is acceptable.
“I’ve experienced this pressure throughout my 22 years at the club and understand what it demands.”
Looking ahead, Salah Eldin said the team faces a challenging set of fixtures in September but voiced full confidence in Head Coach Emad El Nahas, who led the side to the league title last season under difficult circumstances.
“With a technical staff full of experienced club men and the best players in Africa, I have no worries. We’re confident and focused,” he said.
“This staff is here to give back to Al Ahly. Even working one day at the club is an honour that adds to your legacy,” he added.
Salah Eldin also sent a message to the squad: “The team’s results directly affect the mood of millions of fans. Every player must remember that before stepping onto the pitch.”
He concluded by urging fans to remain patient and support the coaching staff in all decisions as they work to guide Al Ahly back to the top.
