Reports from the UK indicate that Ange Postecoglou, the Australian football manager, is a potential candidate for the head coach position at Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli. The Telegraph has suggested that Al-Ahli’s current manager, Matthias Jaissle, might leave for a European club, possibly RB Leipzig. If Jaissle departs, Postecoglou is considered a primary target for the role.
Al-Ahli, who recently secured the AFC Champions League trophy by defeating Japan’s Kawasaki in the final, boasts high-profile players, including Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino and former Leicester and Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez. However, they had a less impressive season, finishing fifth in the Saudi Pro League, 16 points behind champions Al-Ittihad, who have star player Karim Benzema.
Should Postecoglou accept an offer from Al-Ahli, it would mark his return to Asian football after previously leading Yokohama to success in Japan’s top league. He is reportedly attracting interest from various clubs around the world.
In other news, Tottenham has appointed Thomas Frank as their new head coach after a successful tenure at Brentford. Frank, who joined Brentford in 2016 and became their manager in 2018, has earned recognition for his coaching expertise and player development skills. Tottenham’s contract with Frank extends to 2028, and the club hailed him as an innovative coach ready to lead them into the new season.
Although Frank has yet to win a major trophy as a manager, he brings valuable experience from the Premier League. His first significant challenge at Tottenham will be competing in the UEFA Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain. Frank will inherit a squad of higher quality than the one he previously coached, albeit one that finished below Brentford last season.
Fans and insiders commend Frank for transforming Brentford into a competitive side in the Premier League, consistently performing beyond expectations. Brentford’s director of football, Phil Giles, highlighted Frank’s coaching skills and the strong connection he forged with supporters, as well as his role in building a positive club culture. As he transitions to Tottenham, Frank will bring several members of his backroom team, including assistant coach Justin Cochrane, enhancing his chances for success in his new role.