Egypt U/20 international Ahmed Khaled Kabaka says Jose Riveiro wanted him to return to Al Ahly following his loan spell at Modern Sport.
The midfielder also credited former Modern Sport coach Talaat Yousef and the club’s CEO Haitham Orabi, giving him the motivation to perform well during the brief loan spell
“My loan period was a success, and being promoted from the youth team to the first team with the coach’s trust is a wonderful feeling,” Kabaka said as per Soccer Laduma.
“Haitham Orabi played a big role in giving me confidence and motivating me to do my best.”
Jose Riveiro is known for giving youngsters a chance
“Despite the difficulty of that stage, with changes in coaches and the jump from one level to another, I consider it a successful experience. I thank Talaat Youssef, who made a big difference in my character both on and off the pitch. He taught me discipline and what it means to be a true professional,” Kabaka added.
The 20-year-old said the former Orlando Pirates coach pushed for him to return to Al Ahly before his loan deal concluded.
“Returning to Al Ahly was an important step in my career,” said the youngster.
“The decision to cut my loan short came from coach Jose Riveiro, who watched me before the Club World Cup. Wearing the Al Ahly shirt is an honour for any player.”
“Playing among big-name stars at Al Ahly makes getting a chance difficult, but I believe in my potential and will fight for an opportunity,” Kabaka said.
“I received offers after the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, but I’ve always respected the club’s decisions. I’m at the club’s service—whether I stay or move abroad, I’ll be proud of whatever decision is made about my future,” he concluded.
Jose Riveiro has not had a good start to his Al Ahly tenure. The team performed poorly at the FIFA Club World Cup, failing to reach the next round of the competition. The 49-year-old Spaniard has introduced an intense fitness programme for pre-season as he looks to improve his side following a poor 2024/25 season.
Will Riveiro last at Al Ahly?
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