Al Ahly eye global future with Dutch coach Langeler: Youssef

Al Ahly sporting director Mohamed Youssef said on Sunday that Dutch coach Art Langeler brings a wealth of experience to the Egyptian giants as the newly appointed head of the club's youth sector.

Langeler, who previously worked with PSV Eindhoven and the Netherlands' youth national teams, combines academic expertise with hands-on coaching, making him “a valuable asset” to Al Ahly’s long-term development plans, Youssef said.

“Langeler also lectures at the Dutch Football Association, which highlights his technical and developmental knowledge,” Youssef told reporters.

“He comes from the Dutch school of football, known for its attacking style and consistent success, which aligns perfectly with Al Ahly’s identity. This club plays to win.” A work plan for the coming period has already been agreed, Youssef added.

Langeler will oversee training sessions across all youth levels and conduct intensive workshops for coaches, focusing on tactical, physical, and behavioural development.

Youssef said Al Ahly’s youth academy has consistently produced standout talents, citing current first-team players Mohamed Abdelmonem and Mohamed Shoukry as recent examples.

Several others, he noted, have also secured professional moves abroad. He praised the club’s board, led by president Mahmoud El Khatib, for its commitment to youth development and its investment in nurturing talent while embedding Al Ahly’s values in the next generation of players.

Looking ahead, Youssef signalled the club’s openness to expanding international exposure for its young players.

“We welcome opportunities for overseas trials and will not stand in the way of any player receiving a suitable offer,” he said, pointing to the recent move of Amr Khaled Bebo to Swiss side FC Aarau. “We plan to expand this model further.”