The football world just got a major jolt. Al Ahli, the ambitious Saudi club, has officially named Rui Pedro Braz as their new sporting director. This move signals a clear intent from Al Ahli to stamp their authority on the game. Braz, formerly a key executive at Portuguese giants Benfica, now takes charge of strengthening Al Ahli’s football operations. This includes everything from the senior squad down to the youngest age groups.
Al Ahli’s announcement didn’t include any direct quotes from Braz himself. However, the club made it clear he feels “proud” about this exciting new challenge. He is set to arrive in Jeddah early next week to dive headfirst into his new responsibilities. This appointment is a big step for a club looking to build a sustainable and successful future.
Braz brings a wealth of European experience to Saudi Arabia. He spent five impactful seasons at Benfica, a club renowned for its talent development and competitive edge. Starting in 2021, Braz spearheaded several important changes. He completely reorganized Benfica’s scouting network, making it sharper and more effective.
He also brought a modern touch by creating a specialized data analysis department. This team worked hand-in-hand with sports science experts, giving Benfica a real edge. Crucially, Braz focused on creating clear paths for young players. His system helped them move from the youth ranks straight into the first team. This focus on nurturing talent is what made Benfica such a strong club.
Under Braz’s strategic vision, Benfica saw impressive success in the transfer market. This period stretched from the 2021/22 season right up to early 2025/26. The club’s standing grew both on and off the field. During his time, Benfica celebrated multiple league titles and national cups. They also qualified for the prestigious UEFA Champions League five times in a row. Benfica truly became one of Europe’s top clubs for developing promising young footballers.
Al Ahli’s company announced Braz’s appointment as a key part of their plan. They want to strengthen all football operations, for every team and age group. Braz himself expressed his eagerness to work with everyone. This includes all departments, the coaching staff, and the players. His goal is to build a strong foundation for future success. This ambition matches the club’s big goals and the high hopes of their passionate fans.
His arrival next week kicks off a long-term plan for Al Ahli. The club aims to build a sustainable football project from the ground up. This initiative is designed to boost Al Ahli’s profile. They want to be recognized not just locally, but regionally and globally. With Braz on board, the message is clear: Al Ahli is ready to make a significant impact.
