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Juricic bids farewell to his players and apologizes to Egyptian football
Pyramids coach Kronoslav Juricic has announced his departure from the team, clarifying the authenticity of rumors about Al-Ahli management looking for a new coach to replace Danish Jes Torop.
Jurić took over as Pyramids coach in February 2024 and led the team to the podium, winning the CAF Champions League, CAF Super Cup and Egyptian Cup titles (twice), but he did not win the league.
Jurisic told the Egyptian journalist Hani Hatout. “I speak today with very mixed feelings. After much thought, I have made the decision not to continue with Pyramids. It is a very difficult decision for me and probably one of the most difficult decisions of my career, because this trip was not only a work experience, but an important part of my life.”
Farewell message
He added: “The first thing I want to talk about is the players. Let me say it again and probably for the last time. the best thing about this trip were the ‘players’. In every moment, in every game, I saw courage, quality, ambition and a desire to improve. They were real men, warriors, lions on and off the field. I am proud to have always worked with them and will be grateful.
“I have received many messages from them in recent days. Thank you to my men, thank you to my Lions, thank you to my great players. These messages confirmed to me that what we built together was more than just a football team, but a real human relationship that I will never forget.”
The 56-year-old specialist continued. “I am also grateful to the management. My relationship was excellent with Mamdouh Eid (CEO), Hani Saeed (Sports Director) and the rest of the working team, as well as the Abu Dhabi management. From day one I felt supported, trusted and respected.
He explained the reason for his departure. “The journey was great, but also very stressful. It’s hard being a coach for Pyramids. Everyone knows the quality and potential of the team, but there are challenges that many don’t see. Sometimes I felt like I was the coach, the fan, the motivator and everything in one person.
The Croatian coach added. “I’ve reached a point where I feel like I’ve given everything I’ve got. I feel the time has come for new changes. Maybe the team needs new energy with a new coach and I also need a new challenge in my professional life.
He continued his speech by saying: “I know the club tried their best to convince me to continue and were generous and respectful with me until the last minute. Therefore, my decision is not due to any issue or disagreement, but because it is a personal decision that I feel is right at this stage.”
Advice and apologies
“If I have any advice for the club in the future, it is to look for a coach who has tremendous energy as well as technical quality. Someone who understands the Egyptian mindset and lives it every day in all its details between training, matches and pressure. Because success here (in the Pyramid) requires exceptional energy above all else.”
Juricic also wanted to send messages to Egyptian football and its members as he said: “I would also like to address a word to the Egyptians and the Egyptian football family. If I offend anyone in any game, in any situation, or in any communication, I apologize. It’s never been personal, but it’s part of my personality and the way I work under pressure. If I am offended at any time, I sincerely say, I am sorry.”
“When I came to Egypt, I didn’t know much about the country and people didn’t know much about me. Today, when I walk the streets of Cairo and find someone who wants to talk to me or take a picture with me, I am proud. Because success isn’t just about winning games or championships, it’s about letting people know who you are and feeling like you’ve done something worthwhile.”
The truth about Al-Ahly training
“As for my future, I don’t know yet. I want to continue working and fight for the championship, but I haven’t made a decision. I have put all offers and negotiations on hold until I decide on my final position, I can start a new experience soon and I can take some time off with the club.
He emphasized. “I have never spoken to Al-Ahli and they have not contacted me remotely or remotely and everything that has been said about this is not true.”
