Massimiliano Allegri, the former Juventus manager, is on the verge of embarking on his first coaching experience outside Italy. According to recent reports from Calciomercato and others, Allegri has reached a principle agreement with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli, signalling a significant shift in his career trajectory.
The Italian tactician, who has been out of management since leaving Juventus, has been the subject of intense speculation regarding his future. While he had been linked with potential roles at Roma and AC Milan, as well as being approached by the Belgian national team, it appears that the allure of the Saudi Pro League has won out.
Al-Ahli, home to former AC Milan and Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessié, has been actively pursuing Allegri to take charge of the team from the start of the next season in June. This move aligns with the growing trend of high-profile managers making the switch to Saudi Arabia, following in the footsteps of Stefano Pioli, who currently manages Al-Nassr.
The negotiations between Allegri and Al-Ahli have reportedly concluded successfully, paving the way for the Italian coach to lead the Saudi club’s long-term project. However, fans will have to wait until the end of the current season for the official announcement.
In the interim, Al-Ahli are not standing still. The club is set to appoint Gabriele Cioffi, formerly of Udinese, as a caretaker manager following the dismissal of Matthias Jaissle. Cioffi will oversee the team’s affairs until Allegri takes the reins in the summer.
