Softfootball has gathered that Al Ahli have appointed Marino Pusic as their new head coach, with the experienced Dutch-Croatian manager signing a contract that will keep him at the Saudi Pro League club until 2028.
Pusic arrives as the successor to Matthias Jaissle, who recently left Al Ahli to take over as Newcastle United manager after a successful spell in Saudi Arabia.
The 54-year-old brings an impressive coaching résumé to Jeddah. He won the Ukrainian Premier League with Shakhtar Donetsk and previously enjoyed major success as part of Feyenoord’s coaching staff, helping the Dutch club capture the Eredivisie title. Most recently, Pusic managed Al Jazira in the UAE Pro League, giving him valuable experience of football in the region.
Despite speculation linking high-profile names such as Xavi Hernández and Marcelino to the vacancy, those options were never close to becoming reality. The appointment comes just days before the new Saudi Pro League season begins on August 13, giving Pusic limited time to work with his squad before competitive action resumes.
While fan reaction has been mixed, with some supporters hoping for a more glamorous appointment, the club believes Pusic has the experience and leadership qualities required to build on Jaissle’s success and keep Al Ahli competing for major domestic and continental honours.
