The Portuguese will leave Ahli on a high after he added one more trophy to the Cairo giants' cabinet, following Sunday's 1-0 league playoff win over Ismaili.

Ahli encountered a number of setbacks throughout the season though, and Jose believes the league victory is a deserved reward for the Red Devils.

"This title has a very special taste because we are champions after a difficult season," Jose, who hardly speaks to Egyptian media, was quoted by Portuguese newspaper Record.

"I think it is a premium for my players."

Jose clinched the league title with Ahli in the past four years almost facing no resistance from domestic rivals.

However, this season, Ismaili came so close to dethroning the 34-time Egyptian champions, but the veteran tactician made sure to take his tally to 19 trophies with the club.