Former Flying Eagles head coach Aliyu Zubairu has been appointed as the new manager of Sudanese club Al Ahli Madani, signing a two-year contract ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The appointment comes shortly after Zubairu ended his spell with Egyptian second-tier side Telecom SC by mutual agreement, bringing to an end an eight-month stint that began in November 2025.
During his time in Egypt, the 62-year-old impressed by guiding Telecom SC to the semi-finals of the Egyptian FA Cup, enhancing his growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s most experienced coaches.
Zubairu now succeeds Sudanese coach Farouk Jabra, whose contract expired at the end of last season, with Al Ahli Madani preparing for a campaign that includes participation in the CAF Confederation Cup.
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Speaking after completing the move, the Nigerian described the appointment as another major challenge in his coaching career.
“Al Ahli Madani is another huge challenge for me. It is a great club with a rich history and high ambitions. I am looking forward to working with the players, the management and the fans to achieve our objectives, especially as the team prepare to compete in the CAF Confederation Cup.”
Zubairu’s stock has continued to rise over the past three years. He enjoyed a memorable spell with El-Kanemi Warriors, leading the Maiduguri club to the 2024 President Federation Cup title before guiding them back to the Nigeria Premier Football League.
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His success at club level earned him the Flying Eagles job, where he led Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations before taking charge of the team at the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
