Ex-Villarreal Boss Takes Over at Al-Ahly

Spanish footie ace Juan Carlos Garrido has been appointed manager of Egyptian league champions Al-Ahly. The news comes just hours after the Red Devils secured their eighth league title in a row following a scoreless draw with rivals Smouha. Garrido previously coached Spanish sides Villarreal and Real Betis, along with Club Brugge of Belgium. Speaking at a press conference this afternoon, Garrido said, "The competitive atmosphere at Al-Ahly and the fans all urged me to accept the mission. First of all, I hope that fans will return to the stands, especially as we resume our Egypt Cup campaign in two days."

Garrido is raring to go as the club prepares for their Egyptian Cup quarter final bout against Al-Rajaa on Thursday. "Winning my first match in the Egypt Cup after two days will be great. I will depend on the squad that played in recent match and there will not be any major changes." However the new coach has implored fans to give him the chance to prove his worth at the club. "Winning any tournament and delivering good football is my main target with Al-Ahly. I need from 30 to 45 days to show my impact. I need some patience. I know a little information about the players, but it's still not enough."

The move comes just hours after the club sealed their 37th league title, leaving commentators mystified as to the origin of the club's success. Al-Ahly right winger Ahmed Fathi congratulated his club and its fans before dedicating the victory to martyrs. "Congratulations to Al-Ahly club and its great fans for this league. We were determined to win to dedicate the win to our precious martyrs," he said on Twitter this afternoon.

The club is set to host celebrations at their HQ later tonight.