Mosimane has not hid his desire to challenge for the prestigious title with the African champions but will need to dig deep after losing one of the squad's most prominent figures.
Earlier this month the South African tactician claimed he wished he joined Ahly earlier in his career to have managed the 36-year-old in his peak as he continued to produce incredible cameo performances from the bench.
However, after offering him a starting berth in the false nine role during the 0-0 draw against National Bank Ahly he's now suffered a hamstring tear that will rule him out for the next month.
The Red Devils kickstart their campaign against hosts Al Duhail on 1 February at the Education City Stadium with the winner set to face European champions Bayern Munich in the next round.
