Al Ahli reportedly part ways with Rui Pedro After loss to Al Hilal

Al Ahli have reportedly parted ways with their sporting director, Rui Pedro, following their recent 3-0 defeat to Al Hilal. Pedro, who has been with Al Ahli since October, had been subject to intense criticism from fans over the club's summer transfer activities. Many blamed Pedro for the lack of significant additions during the transfer window, which culminated in the departure of high-profile players like Riyad Mahrez and Frank Kessie.

Reports suggest that the club became aware of alleged corruption cases involving Pedro, including the signing of Ukrainian midfielder Artem Bondarenko. Bondarenko, who joined Al Ahli from Shaktar Donetsk, was reportedly offered a salary of €2.5 million annually, much higher than his requested €1.3 million. Critics argue that the transfer was unjustified given Bondarenko's relatively limited impact at Al Ahli.

The club's decision to terminate Pedro's contract appears to be a response to both fan dissatisfaction and internal discontent from senior players. Pedro's tenure at Al Ahli began after he left Benfica, where he had previously held a similar role. As Al Ahli attempts to stabilize under new coach Marino Pusic, the club now faces the challenge of finding a suitable replacement for Pedro.