Egyptian club Al Ahly has appointed a new head coach to replace José Riveiro, who was dismissed some weeks ago.

Jess Thorup, who hails from Denmark, has penned a two-and-a-half-year deal, succeeding Riveiro at the African Club of the Century.

Thorup, who has coached in Denmark, Belgium, and Germany, now takes charge of the 12-time CAF Champions League winners.

According to reports, he’ll earn $9 million (R154 million) over the 30 months of his contract.

“This came after the meeting held by Mahmoud Al-Khatib, the club president, with the planning committee and the sports director, and reviewing the vision of the football director. He concluded consultations regarding this file and chose the most appropriate coach for the team at this important stage,” announced the club.

Thorup is expected to arrive in Cairo on Thursday morning.

Meanwhile, El Khatib has officially declared he’ll run in the upcoming club elections, reversing his decision to step away.

The 70-year-old, who had announced in recent weeks that he would not seek another term, revealed he had a change of heart following strong support from club members and fans.

“I have always pledged to put the club’s interests before my own. Although I previously announced I would step aside for health reasons, the love and trust of Al Ahly members and fans had a deep impact on me. After extensive consultations, I have decided to continue in this position of responsibility to serve Al Ahly in the best way possible.”

El Khatib has been the club’s president for eight years, and he’s the clear favourite to retain his position during the elections from October 30 to 31.