Veteran Spanish manager Rafael Benitez has reportedly declined an approach from Egyptian football giants Al Ahly, who were seeking a replacement for recently departed coach Marcel Koller.
Al Ahly parted ways with Swiss coach Koller over the weekend, following the club’s dramatic exit from the CAF Champions League at the semi-final stage.
Despite leading 1-0 in the second leg against South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns, a late equaliser saw the tie end 1-1 on aggregate, with Sundowns progressing to the final on the away goals rule.
The elimination marked a disappointing end for Koller, who had enjoyed a trophy-laden tenure at the Cairo club, winning 12 titles, including two CAF Champions League trophies and two Egyptian Premier League crowns.
His exit prompted a swift search for a high-profile successor.
According to Africa Soccer, Al Ahly approached Rafael Benitez with a proposal to take over the head coach position.
However, the former Liverpool, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and Napoli boss reportedly declined the offer.
Benitez, who has been out of work since his dismissal from Celta Vigo in March 2024, is said to be holding out for opportunities in Europe and is not currently interested in managing in North Africa.
In the meantime, Al Ahly have appointed former club defender Emad El-Nahhas as interim head coach, with Mohamed Shawky named as his assistant.
The club is expected to continue its search for a permanent manager, with former RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund coach Marco Rose among the names reportedly under consideration.
Al Ahly will now look to stabilize their season under El-Nahhas as they weigh their next long-term move on the coaching front.
Mark Carney’s Liberals Win Canadian Election, Fall Short Of Majority
