Egyptian media reports suggest the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is moving closer to approving a proposal submitted by Egyptian Football Association president Hany Abo Rida to expand the number of club places in both the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup.

If approved, Al Ahly could emerge as the biggest beneficiary after finishing third in the Egyptian Premier League, a position that currently leads only to the Confederation Cup.

Why could Al Ahly return to the Champions League?

The proposal would grant an additional continental place to CAF's highest-ranked member associations, potentially allowing Egypt to have three clubs in the Champions League and three in the Confederation Cup, with the additional teams entering through the preliminary qualifying rounds.

If the changes are introduced for next season, Al Ahly could return to Africa's premier club competition despite not finishing in the league's top two.

Why might CAF approve it?

From a sporting perspective, the proposal would give more African clubs the opportunity to compete in continental competitions.

Commercially, however, some observers believe the presence of clubs with massive followings, such as Al Ahly, would also increase television audiences, sponsorship opportunities and the overall value of CAF competitions.

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CAF has not stated that commercial considerations are behind the proposal, and no official decision has yet been announced.

Why is the proposal controversial?

The possibility has already sparked debate among Egyptian football fans.

Many Zamalek supporters argue that qualification rules were known before the domestic season began and should not be altered after the final standings have been decided, particularly if doing so allows Al Ahly into the Champions League despite finishing third.

Supporters of the proposal, however, argue that additional continental places would strengthen Egyptian football as a whole rather than benefiting one club alone.

Official decision still pending

Despite growing reports that the proposal is gaining momentum, CAF has yet to make an official announcement.

Should the governing body approve the changes, the decision could become one of the most controversial in recent African football, reshaping qualification for continental competitions while reigniting the debate over sporting merit versus the game's growing commercial ambitions.