Al Ahli are navigating one of the most turbulent pre-season periods in recent memory, arriving at the start of the 2026/27 Saudi Pro League campaign with a new head coach, a squad in transition, and unresolved transfer business still to complete before the window closes.

The defining event of the summer was the departure of Matthias Jaissle, who resigned to take charge of Newcastle United after three years that brought back-to-back AFC Champions League Elite titles. The club moved quickly to appoint Marino Bosic, previously of Shakhtar Donetsk and Al Jazira, on a contract until 2028. A friendly defeat to Al Ittifaq, 3-1 without a head coach in place at the time, underlined how disruptive that transition was, though the club have since completed their pre-season schedule with seven matches including a draw against Fulham.

In the transfer market, Al Ahli have been active on multiple fronts. Defender Roger Ibanez has rejected Premier League interest and is working towards a contract extension, while the club signed young striker Abdullah Rudaif and are pursuing Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado. Striker Ivan Toney, the league's Golden Boot winner last season, faces an assault charge in England relating to an incident in London, with his representative stating he is shocked and will prove his innocence. Tottenham have also been linked with Toney, adding further uncertainty around a player central to Bosic's attacking plans.

The Saudi Pro League season opens on August 13 away at Al Diriyah, giving Bosic little time to settle his squad before competitive action begins.