Al Ahly's signing of Benjedida embarrasses Maghreb Fes president

Al Ahly of Egypt has officially announced the signing of Moroccan striker Soufiane Benjedida from Maghreb Fes (MAS), a move that has placed MAS's sports company president, Omar Beniss, in an awkward position. Beniss had recently denied any official negotiations with the Egyptian club, insisting that MAS intended to keep all its key players, including Benjedida, for upcoming competitions.

In a televised interview, Beniss had stated that MAS had not received any official offers from Al Ahly. He emphasized that while the club would consider transfers that benefited both parties, Benjedida was under contract until 2030 with a substantial release clause. Beniss also noted that a transfer to an African club was not being considered at that time, especially given MAS's continental participation and Al Ahly's ineligibility for the upcoming Champions League.

Despite these previous statements, Al Ahly confirmed the transfer on Sunday after reaching an agreement with Maghreb Fes. This official announcement resolves the speculation surrounding Benjedida's future and confirms that negotiations proceeded discreetly. Benjedida was a key performer for MAS last season, drawing attention from various clubs before Al Ahly successfully acquired his services during the current summer transfer window.