Ali Maâloul, the Tunisian left-back currently playing for CS Sfaxien, reflects fondly on his nine-year tenure with Egyptian giants Al Ahly, a period he describes as experiencing a level of fame unmatched in his home country. In a recent interview with Hashtag Media Tunisia, as reported by several news outlets, Maâloul discussed his career, his relationship with fans, and his continued ambition to secure a title with the Tunisian national team. The conversation offers a glimpse into the contrasting football cultures of Egypt and Tunisia, and the enduring impact of his time in Cairo.
Maâloul, born January 1, 1990, began his professional career with CS Sfaxien in 2009, eventually becoming their captain. He quickly established himself as a key player, even leading the league in scoring with 14 goals in 20 matches during the 2015-16 season – a remarkable feat for a defender. According to his Wikipedia profile, this performance caught the attention of Al Ahly, leading to his transfer in July 2016.
A Different Kind of Fame
The difference in celebrity between Tunisia and Egypt was a central theme of Maâloul’s interview. He explained that the adoration from fans in Egypt, particularly those supporting Al Ahly, is significantly more intense. “The celebrity in Tunisia is not like the celebrity in Egypt, This proves bigger in Egypt, especially in a big club like Al Ahly, because of the large number of fans who love their team’s players, whereas in Tunisia, the mentality is more tough,” he stated. This observation speaks to the passionate and deeply ingrained football culture in Egypt, where clubs like Al Ahly represent more than just sporting institutions. they are integral parts of national identity.
Memorable Moments with Al Ahly
Maâloul highlighted a specific match against Mamelodi Sundowns in the 2020 CAF Champions League quarter-finals as the most memorable of his career. He scored two goals in the first leg and another in the return leg, contributing significantly to Al Ahly’s progression. He likewise fondly recalled a stunning free-kick goal against Banque Nationale, considering it one of his best. As reported by ysscores.com, these moments underscore his impact during his time with the club.
A Tunisian Still Aiming for Glory
Despite his success with Al Ahly, where he won four CAF Champions League titles, Maâloul remains focused on achieving glory with the Tunisian national team. He acknowledged having participated in the Africa Cup of Nations in 2015 and 2017, and having earned 89 caps as of April 1, 2024, according to his Wikipedia page, but expressed a desire to add a championship title to his resume. “With the national team, I have played a large number of matches and participated in the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup, but I always aim to achieve what I miss and I think I need to win a title with the national team,” he said.
Returning to His Roots
After nine years with Al Ahly, Maâloul returned to CS Sfaxien in August 2025. He currently wears the number 10 shirt for the club, a somewhat unusual choice for a left-back, a detail noted during his initial stint with the team. As of April 1, 2024, he has made 7 appearances for CS Sfaxien, scoring no goals. His Wikipedia profile details these recent statistics.
Maâloul also shared that he is content with his career choices and has no regrets about not having played in Europe. He believes Al Ahly offers a comparable level of competition to European clubs, describing it as “a European club in Africa.” This sentiment highlights the growing strength and competitiveness of African football, and Al Ahly’s position as a continental powerhouse.
Known affectionately as “the king of solutions” – a nickname earned in Egypt and now used in Tunisia – Ali Maâloul continues to be a respected figure in African football. His story is one of dedication, success, and a deep connection with the fans who have supported him throughout his career.
Looking ahead, Maâloul will undoubtedly focus on contributing to CS Sfaxien’s success and continuing to represent Tunisia on the international stage. The pursuit of a title with the national team remains a driving force, and fans will be eager to see what the future holds for this accomplished footballer.
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