July 2 – Al Ahly SC, the Egyptian club powerhouse that has been collecting trophies since 1907, have announced they’re planting their flag in North America.
Amir Tawfik, CEO of Al Ahly Football Company, said: “We are proud to bring the legacy of Al Ahly FC, one of the most successful and historic football clubs in the world, to North America. This marks a new chapter for youth soccer, blending local talent with international standards rooted in passion, discipline, and excellence.”
The partnership with Square Seven International provides infrastructure, but make no mistake: this is Al Ahly’s vision. These aren’t licensed academies trading on fame – this is systematic export of football philosophy refined over a century.
North America hosts the FIFA World Cup next year, youth soccer participation is exploding, and there’s a massive gap for authentic, elite-level training that isn’t repackaged European methodology.
Al Ahly isn’t competing with MLS academies – they’re creating something different. A bridge between authentic African football culture and North American opportunity.
The diaspora element is brilliant. Egyptian and Arab communities finally have direct connection to their beloved sporting institution. But this isn’t just about existing communities – it’s introducing North American players to football emphasising technical excellence, tactical discipline, and genuine passion.
Al Ahly knows player development. Their Egyptian academy system has produced generations of players competing at Africa’s highest levels.
Al Ahly’s methodology emphasises ball mastery, tactical intelligence, and mental toughness, qualities often overlooked in North American systems prioritising athleticism over football intelligence.
In July a Toronto press conference will detail operations, but the framework is clear: multiple academy branches, integrated management, direct connection to Al Ahly’s global network.
Al Ahly is making authentic grassroots investment rather than buying relevance. The commercial opportunities are massive – sponsorship alignment, community marketing to diaspora populations, local franchise partnerships under the Al Ahly umbrella.
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1751439894labto1751439894ofdlr1751439894owedi1751439894sni@o1751439894fni1751439894