Al Ahly Expands International Footprint with New Soccer Academies in the USA and Canada.

Roger Hampel

Image: Al Ahly

Al Ahly SC, widely regarded as one of the most successful football clubs in history, has taken a major step in its international expansion strategy by launching official soccer academies in the United States and Canada. The announcement was made jointly by Al Ahly Football Company and Square Seven International, its newly appointed partner for North American operations.

The move marks the club’s most significant grassroots investment outside of Egypt to date, positioning Al Ahly as a player in the rapidly evolving youth football ecosystem across North America.

Legacy Meets Growth: Bringing Al Ahly to the Americas

The initiative was formally confirmed by Amir Tawfik, CEO of Al Ahly Football Company, who shared via LinkedIn:

“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.”

Founded in 1907, Al Ahly is known for its unmatched record in African football — but its brand ambitions have grown beyond continental borders. The opening of these academies reflects the club’s vision to build a sustainable global presence, with a focus on long-term player development, community integration, and commercial opportunity. Al Ahly USA Canada

North American Focus: Why USA and Canada?

The academies are being launched in partnership with Square Seven International, a global operator with expertise in organizing and scaling youth development platforms. According to the official announcement (Arabic), a press conference will be held in Toronto this July to outline further commercial, logistical, and sporting details.

This North American chapter aligns with Al Ahly’s broader ambition to:

• Develop a network of youth academies that promote technical excellence and cultural exchange

• Provide local players in the U.S. and Canada access to elite-level training based on the Al Ahly methodology

• Establish emotional and commercial links with diaspora communities and emerging football markets

• Expand brand visibility in a region preparing to host the FIFA World Cup 2026

  
  

Commercial Structure and Vision Al Ahly USA Canada

The agreement with Square Seven International includes:

• The launch of multiple academy branches in both the U.S. and Canada

• A dedicated management and logistics framework tailored to the North American model

• Integration into Al Ahly’s global training philosophy and identity

• A vision to build toward further expansion into new cities across the U.S.

  
  

While the academies are focused on youth development, the announcement also highlights broader commercial objectives — including sponsorship alignment, community marketing, and potential local franchise partnerships under the Al Ahly brand.