Ribeiro vs Al Ahly: When Severance Pay Becomes a Courtroom Show
20 February 2026
Background
In the latest developments surrounding Al Ahly's coaching saga, Jose Ribeiro, the Spanish boss who parted ways with the club, is reportedly considering a formal appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) over severance pay. The pursuit begins as the Red Castle contends with a season of mixed results, including a defeat to Pyramids FC that underscored a rough start and contributed to Ribeiro's mutual departure in August.
Contract Details and Allegations
According to reports, Ribeiro’s contract included a three‑month severance clause, with an initial settlement of around $98,000 agreed after termination. It is said that the club had prepared the funds and asked the coach to collect them, only for Ribeiro to decline the payout. So far, there has been no formal notification of a complaint, which leaves the possibility of escalation on the table.
Analysts have hinted that the dispute could hinge on a so‑called “moral damages” clause, which, if applicable, might permit additional compensation beyond the three months previously agreed. Ribeiro’s camp argues this clause could justify further claims, prompting renewed dialogue with the club.
What Could Happen Next
Media figure Saif Zahar remarked on national TV that the separation seemed negotiated, but the presence of a moral damages clause might open doors to extra compensation if Ribeiro’s reputation or mental state is deemed affected by the termination. The club counters by engaging an international lawyer to scrutinize every contract term to ensure the club’s position is solid.
As the legal dialogue continues, the situation remains fluid, with both sides preparing for potential arbitration or litigation. The next steps will likely hinge on how the “moral damages” argument is interpreted in CAS or other legal forums.
Punchline: In football, contracts have more twists than a derby—and somehow they still end up in extra time. Punchline 2: If drama paid the bills, this saga would be a box office hit.
