Matthias Jaissle: 'Al-Ahli did not respect me'
Former Al-Ahli manager Matthias Jaissle claims he left the club due to a lack of respect during contract renewal negotiations, not financial disputes.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: Werner100359
German coach Matthias Jaissle has broken his silence regarding his sudden departure from Al-Ahli. Through former executive committee member Abdulaziz Al-Anqari, the coach sent an emotional message to the club's supporters to clarify the situation behind his exit.
Jaissle insisted that his decision was not about money, but rather the way he was treated during contract renewal negotiations. "I had hoped to continue leading Al-Ahli, as this is my project, but I did not find the appreciation and respect, and I hope the fans will value me," Al-Anqari quoted the coach as saying.
Al-Anqari added that financial issues were never the root cause of the breakdown. Jaissle reportedly indicated he would accept a lower salary at Newcastle United—where he is currently linked for the upcoming season—than he earned in Saudi Arabia, proving that the conflict stemmed from how the negotiations were managed.
Jaissle departs after one of the most successful eras in club history, having secured back-to-back AFC Champions League Elite titles. The club's supporters are now demanding clarity from the board regarding the internal events that led to the split.