Al Ahli reaffirm commitment to Matthias Jaissle amid contract renewal talks
Saudi Gazette report
JEDDAH — Al Ahli Saudi FC have reaffirmed their commitment to head coach Matthias Jaissle, dismissing speculation about a potential split and confirming that the German tactician remains under contract until 2026.
In an official statement released Saturday, the club denied any reports suggesting a termination of Jaissle's contract or talks with alternative candidates.
'Such claims are baseless and completely unfounded,' the club said, adding that all official communications are issued exclusively via its verified platforms.
Al Ahli further revealed that talks are already underway to revise Jaissle's existing contract to enhance technical continuity ahead of a critical upcoming season.
'Coach Jaissle is a cornerstone of our sporting project,' the statement read. 'We value the professional strides made under his leadership and are confident in his ability to drive forward our long-term strategy.'The club's statement comes in response to widespread media reports suggesting an imminent parting of ways, intensified by comments made by Jaissle himself following Al Ahli's recent league win over Al Kholood.Speaking at the post-match press conference, Jaissle expressed gratitude for the players and fans but noted: 'The club decided not to renew my contract. There were no talks regarding extension terms or salary. My intention has always been to stay and build on what we've started, but that wasn't the club's direction.'Despite the remarks, local media reports confirmed that Al Ahli have in fact presented Jaissle with a contract extension offer for one additional season. The proposed deal includes a salary raise starting next season, where he remains under contract.Jaissle's current package reportedly totals €9 million annually, reaching €12 million with performance bonuses. However, the coach is said to be seeking a long-term four-year deal worth €20 million per season — a demand Al Ahli management views as excessive at this stage of the club's rebuilding project.
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