Rabat – UAE club Al Jazira has named Moroccan manager Houcine Ammouta as its new head coach, signing him to a contract that runs until 2026.
According to local press, the seasoned figure in Gulf regional football takes the reins at the Abu Dhabi-based club with the aim of propelling them back to domestic prominence and continental success.
Ammouta boasts a diverse footballing background. While his playing career included a brief stint with Sharjah FC in the UAE during the 2002-2003 season, it was in Qatar where he truly made his mark.
There, he enjoyed success as both a player and later as a coach with the powerhouse club Al Sadd.
However, it’s Ammouta’s recent work with the Jordanian national team that has garnered him significant attention. He orchestrated a historic run for Jordan, guiding them to an unprecedented appearance in the final of the 2023 Asian Cup.
This achievement wasn’t a one-off. Ammouta went on tostrategically securing Jordan’s qualification for both the 2027 Asian Cup and the crucial third round of qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Al Jazira’s decision to appoint Ammouta likely reflects their ambition to recapture their domestic dominance. The club, boasting a strong squad and a loyal fanbase, has fallen short of expectations in recent seasons.
Ammouta’s experience managing high-profile teams and his proven track record of success, particularly in the region, are seen as crucial assets in helping the club achieve its goals.
The upcoming training camp scheduled for July in Spain will be Ammouta’s first opportunity to connect with his new team.
This period will be critical for him to assess the players’ strengths and weaknesses, implement his tactical approach, and begin building a cohesive unit capable of challenging for top honors.
