Al-Ahli Fans' Anger Forces Sporting Director Rui Pedro Out

The story of Al-Ahli in the 2026 summer transfer window has become the focus of criticism in the Saudi Pro League. Within hours, Sporting Director Rui Pedro was sacked after a wave of fan anger. Behind it are controversial transfer decisions, including a 12 million euro fee for Baby Cabral who played only 114 minutes last season, and the departure of key players Riyad Mahrez and Franck Kessié without suitable replacements. Deep analysis shows this is not just a personal issue but reflects the long-term strategy of a club aiming for the top spot. Initially, Al-Ahli was targeting the title defense and European qualification. However, the departure of coach Matthias Jaissle to Newcastle United created a leadership vacuum. Rui Pedro, who succeeded at Benfica, was appointed in October 2026 but faced transfer controversies. Al-Ahli fan pages spread opposition to the Bondarenko signing from Shakhtar Donetsk, calling it below standard compared to Kessié. Fans also criticized the high cost of Cabral, 10 times market value. The sacking of Rui Pedro came just hours after the social media campaign erupted, showing the power of the fan community in shaping club policy. Core analysis of transfer impacts reveals the midfield is being dismantled without adequate replacement. Kessié brought balance with box-to-box runs. Bondarenko, though talented, lacks the physical depth. Cabral, with 114 minutes for Monaco, cannot handle SPL physicality. This makes Al-Ahli's transition style unstable, relying on young players' ball retention. Opta data shows higher pressing rates against rivals, which Al-Ahli struggles to maintain without a dedicated box-to-box midfielder. The contrarian view is that despite the 10x overpay for Cabral, the club can absorb it due to PIF resources. However, opportunities for academy talent may be wasted. Sacking Rui Pedro is a rational governance move, but raises questions if it's maintaining reputation pressure or a long-term solution. The defense is weakened, Mahrez's exit removes creativity, while Kessié provided stability. Overall, Al-Ahli is lagging behind Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr, who retain their key stars. Takeaway: After exactly 10 matchweeks this season, when pressing and xG data accumulate, we will see if Al-Ahli recovers or continues to decline. Al-Ahli fans demand not just wins but consistency in squad building. Tonight, the club must find a new direction, and if not, the gap to the top will widen. We will revisit after matchweek 12, when the record against Al-Hilal will clarify this decision.