Al Ahli are navigating one of the most turbulent pre-seasons in recent memory, arriving at the start of the 2026/27 Saudi Pro League campaign with a new head coach, a reshaped squad, and several unresolved questions just days before competitive football resumes.

The defining event of the summer was Matthias Jaissle's departure to Newcastle United, ending a three-year spell that delivered back-to-back AFC Champions League Elite titles. Marino Busitich, previously of Shakhtar Donetsk and Al Jazira, was appointed on a contract until 2028, though reports revealed Al Ahli had also held talks with Didier Deschamps before settling on the Bosnian coach. A 3-1 friendly defeat to Al Ittifaq, played without a head coach in place, underlined the disruption caused by the transition.

In the transfer market, the club has moved decisively. Abdullah Radeef has been signed from Al Hilal, while Al Ahli are reportedly competing with their rivals to land Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado. Defender Roger Ibanez has rejected Premier League interest and is in talks to extend his contract, a boost for Busitich's defensive foundations. Striker Ivan Toney, the league's Golden Boot winner last season, remains a key figure, though he faces an assault charge in England relating to an incident in London, with his spokesperson stating he will contest the allegation.

Al Ahli open the new Saudi Pro League season away at Al Diriyah on August 13, with the standings currently level across the division after zero matches played. The club go into that game as two-time Asian champions, but the pressure on Busitich to build cohesion quickly is real.