Jose Peseiro Lands New Coaching Role With Saudi Side Al-Ula FC

Former Super Eagles head coach Jose Peseiro has returned to the dugout after being appointed as the new manager of Saudi First Division League club, Al-Ula FC.

The 65-year-old Portuguese tactician joins the Saudi outfit following a brief spell with Egyptian giants Zamalek, where he spent just four months before parting ways with the club.

Despite the short stint in Egypt, Peseiro remains highly regarded on the African football scene, particularly for his impressive run with Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, where he guided the Super Eagles to a second-place finish.

Promotion Push on the Agenda

Al-Ula FC currently sit fourth on the league table, firmly in the promotion race. The club will be hoping Peseiro’s experience and tactical nous can provide the final push needed to secure promotion to the Saudi Pro League next season.

With the Saudi football scene attracting global attention and heavy investment, Al-Ula’s decision to bring in a coach of Peseiro’s pedigree signals clear ambition.

Opinion: A Calculated Move That Could Revive Peseiro’s Momentum

For Peseiro, this appointment feels like a smart and strategic reset. While his Zamalek spell ended abruptly, his AFCON performance with Nigeria proved he still has the ability to organise teams, manage pressure and deliver results on big stages.

The Saudi First Division offers a less volatile environment than North African club football, giving Peseiro the space to build structure, instil discipline and focus on results without constant turbulence.

If he succeeds in guiding Al-Ula FC into the top flight, it could not only transform the club’s fortunes but also re-establish Peseiro as a dependable manager in a rapidly growing football market.

For Al-Ula, the message is clear: promotion is the target, and Peseiro is the man trusted to deliver it.