New era beckons for holders Al-Ahli ahead of Asian Champions League title defence

In a new chapter for Al-Ahli, the Saudi Pro League side prepares to defend their Asian Champions League Elite title against Pakhtakor on September 13, 2023. The team, now under new management with coach Marino Pusic replacing Matthias Jaissle, has undergone significant changes. Riyad Mahrez and Franck Kessie, key players in Al-Ahli's past two triumphs, have departed the club, while Roberto Firmino left earlier in the year. The new squad aims to maintain competitiveness in domestic and continental competitions.

Al-Ahli joins five other Saudi Pro League clubs in the expanded league phase of the competition, which now features 16 teams from each continent. The Saudi Arabian-based clubs include Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Qadsiah. The regional playoff format will see the top eight teams from both Asian and European sides advance to the knockout stage. Hosted in Saudi Arabia for the third consecutive year, the final is set for May 1, 2024.

Last season, Al-Ahli secured their first title by defeating Machida Zelvia in Jeddah. For the 2023-24 season, the Japanese club will be represented by Kashima Antlers, along with Gamba Osaka, Kyoto Sanga, Kashiwa Reysol, and Vissel Kobe. The Japanese teams will face off against Australian side Newcastle Jets and South Korean representatives Pohang Steelers and Beijing Guoan.