New Era, New Battle: Al Ahly’s Burundi Mission Under Turup’s Lead

Team on the move: Turup’s first outing in charge

Danish coach Jes Turup, newly appointed head coach of Al Ahly, unveiled the 24-man squad that will depart Cairo on Thursday morning for Burundi, ahead of Saturday’s CAF Champions League first leg against Eagle Nwar. The camp stressed focus and fitness as the team gears up for a crucial continental start under a fresh leadership.

The squad features a blend of experienced regulars and returning players, including Mohamed El Shennawy and a mix of defenders, midfielders, and attackers ready to hit the ground running in Burundi. The list signals Turup’s intention to blend proven performers with new options as the Reds chase a positive start in Africa.

Injuries, returns, and travel logistics

However, the camp also brought unwelcome news on injuries: Ashraf Dari, Hussein El Shahat, Emam Ashour, and Karim Fouad will miss the trip due to injury or illness. Mohamed Shukri underwent medical tests after returning from a lengthy spell, and Ahmed Abdin and Mohamed Abdullah linked up after their Chile duty with the youth World Cup squad. Shahat is projected to be out for around two months; Fouad should be fit to rejoin squad activities in about a week, with Dari potentially returning in three weeks. Emam Ashour remains under ongoing medical monitoring to assess his status.

Turup oversaw the first training session at the Mokhtar El Tetsh stadium with much of his coaching staff, as the Reds prepared for departure. The team held a late-day session ahead of flying to Burundi on a private plane, with international players joining up after their national-team or club duties.

Burundi trip, hotel hurdles, and captain’s new era

The delegation then traveled on a private flight to Burundi to face Eagle Nwar in the first leg. Club president Mahmoud El Khatib attended to honor former interim coach Emad El Nahhas for his dedication and role in last season’s league success and the transition following José Ribeiro’s exit. In parallel, Al Ahly announced Jes Turup as head coach for two and a half years, with a reported salary of 250,000 euros per month and a five-man supporting staff; Adl Mustafa remains part of the foreign staff.

Behind the scenes, the club’s administration toasted a successful resolution of late-arrival concerns and accommodation near the stadium. Egyptian Embassy coordination and Al Ahly’s own services division helped secure hotels and finalize the private-flight arrangements, ensuring the trip proceeds smoothly despite earlier logistical headaches.

Punchline 1: Turup’s playbook is so tight, even the offside line files a restraining order. Punchline 2: If Al Ahly’s defense stays this sharp, the only thing that might miss is the joke—because the scoreboard will be busy all night.