Al Ahli are in advanced negotiations with Spanish manager Marcelino, who has agreed in principle to take charge of the Saudi Arabian club next season following the expected departure of Matthias Jaissle.
Reports in Saudi Arabia said Jaissle submitted his resignation on Thursday with the intention of becoming manager of Newcastle United next season, replacing Eddie Howe.
The German’s departure has prompted Al Ahli to consider a number of high-profile candidates. Former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez, Liverpool boss Arne Slot, and Portuguese coaches Vitor Pereira, Nuno Espirito Santo and Sergio Conceicao have all been linked with the position.
However, respected journalist Santi Aouna has identified Marcelino as the latest name to emerge in the club’s search for a successor.
Aouna wrote on his personal X account that discussions between Al Ahli and Marcelino had reached an advanced stage, with the 60-year-old having agreed to manage the team during the 2026-27 campaign.
Marcelino has spent most of a coaching career lasting almost 30 years in Spanish football. His only experience outside Spain came during a brief spell with Olympique de Marseille in 2023.
The manager has worked with several of Spain’s leading clubs, including Villarreal CF, Valencia CF, Athletic Club, Sevilla FC and Real Zaragoza.
His record at the highest level includes two major honours. He guided Valencia CF to the Copa del Rey in 2019 before leading Athletic Club to the Spanish Super Cup in 2021.
Al Ahli supporters will hope Marcelino can provide a successful replacement for Jaissle, who has been in charge of the Saudi club for three years.
During that period, Jaissle led Al Ahli to two AFC Champions League Elite titles and one Saudi Super Cup.
The German coach’s reported move to Newcastle United would bring an end to his time in Saudi Arabia and leave Al Ahli seeking continuity after a successful spell under his management.
Marcelino’s potential appointment would give the club a coach with extensive experience of managing major teams and competing for domestic honours in Spain. His previous roles at Villarreal CF, Valencia CF, Athletic Club, Sevilla FC and Real Zaragoza have made him one of the most experienced candidates considered by Al Ahli.
Despite being linked with several prominent managers, including Xavi Hernandez and Arne Slot, the club now appears to have made significant progress in its discussions with the former Villarreal CF head coach.
No formal agreement has been announced, but Aouna’s report indicates that Marcelino has already accepted the prospect of taking over at Al Ahli next season.
