Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli have appointed Marino Pusic as their new head coach on a contract running until 2028, filling the vacancy left by Matthias Jaissle’s sudden departure to take charge of Newcastle United.
The managerial reshuffle in the Saudi Pro League has triggered both a technical overhaul and a potential financial windfall for the club. While the boardroom anticipates a substantial payout from the former manager’s exit, the sporting side moved quickly to secure an experienced successor ahead of the new campaign.
Marino Pusic Steps In on a Contract Through 2028
The appointment brings a seasoned European manager to the Saudi club following a turbulent week. Marino Pusic arrives with a varied tactical resume, having led Shakhtar Donetsk to the Ukrainian league title in 2024. The 54-year-old also managed United Arab Emirates side Al Jazira last season during his first coaching stint in the Gulf region.
Pusic’s career history includes several notable developmental milestones across European football. He helped FC Twente secure promotion to the Eredivisie in 2019 and later claimed the Dutch league title as Feyenoord’s assistant coach in 2023.
The Departure of Matthias Jaissle for Newcastle United
The transition follows the departure of Matthias Jaissle, who chose to walk away from his post to work in England. During his tenure in Saudi Arabia, Jaissle guided the team to back-to-back AFC Champions League Elite titles.
His sudden resignation turned what could have been a purely disruptive technical crisis into an unexpected financial development for the board. Media figure Walid Al-Farraj reported on his programme on Rotana Sport that Al-Ahli are waiting to bank 55 million riyals, representing the value of the release clause tied to Jaissle’s contract as he departs for the Premier League.
Roster Adjustments During the Transfer Window
Beyond the managerial files, the club corridors remain active as management looks to reinforce the squad. The board is hunting for a new holding midfielder to bolster the middle of the pitch and give the technical staff additional tactical flexibility.
These roster adjustments unfold as the team opens its domestic schedule. Al-Ahli begin their new season against Al-Diriyah, a side freshly promoted to the Roshn League.
