Former Fulham, Bradford and Norwich man quits Portsmouth for Saudi Arabia switch

The 42-year-old joined Pompey’s Academy set-up in the summer of 2022

Pompey have confirmed the departure of a key member of John Mousino’s back-room team.

Zesh Rehman has left Fratton Park to take up a new position in Saudi Arabia, bringing an end to three-and-a-half years on the south coast.

Zesh Rehman has left Pompey to take up a role in Saudi Arabia. Picture: Jason Brown/ProSportsImagesplaceholder image
Zesh Rehman has left Pompey to take up a role in Saudi Arabia. Picture: Jason Brown/ProSportsImages | Jason Brown/ProSportsImages

The former Fulham centre-half initially joined the Academy as lead professional development coach in the summer of 2022.

However, following Danny Cowley’s dismissal in January 2023, he stepped up to assist with the first-team on a temporary basis, before being appointed permanently to the role of first-team development coach in March 2023.

With Mousinho head coach by that time, he joined coaches Jon Harley, Joe Prodomo and, latterly, Michael Doyle, as part of a close-knit backroom.

Now the ex-QPR and Bradford defender has quit to take up an opportunity in Saudi Arabia.

‘I will always appreciate the opportunity I was given by Richard Hughes and Andy Cullen to transition from the academy to the first team.

‘The journey from winning League One to maintaining Championship status was special to be a part of.

‘I have thoroughly enjoyed working with all the staff to help develop players, regardless of age or status, in the squad.

‘I wish all the players the best for the rest of the season and their future careers. My family and I will always have fond memories of the community and city.’

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