Arne Slot leads candidates to succeed Jaissle at Al-Ahli
Al-Ahli are searching for a new manager as Matthias Jaissle nears a move to Newcastle United, with Arne Slot emerging as the top candidate.
Management at Saudi club Al-Ahli has initiated a formal search for a new head coach. The move comes as current boss Matthias Jaissle is nearing a deal to join Newcastle United. Jaissle reportedly handed in his resignation following two highly successful seasons, during which he secured consecutive AFC Champions League Elite titles.
Arne Slot, who has been a free agent since leaving Liverpool in May 2026 after a Premier League-winning campaign, is currently leading the list of candidates. Despite interest from various European clubs over recent months, the Dutchman remains available and is now a primary target for the Saudi side.
The club is also considering Portuguese coach Vitor Pereira, who is well-versed in the Saudi Pro League. Pereira has previously managed Al-Shabab and had a stint at Al-Ahli back in 2013. Most recently, he served as manager of Nottingham Forest. While no official talks have occurred with him yet, he remains a strong option under consideration.
According to reports, the Al-Ahli board has opened discussions with five different coaches to ensure a swift transition. The club is prioritizing a manager with significant European pedigree to lead the team into the next chapter of their project.