AL AHLY SHOWS INTEREST IN ZAMALEK'S MAHMOUD BENTAJI AFTER STRONG DERBY PERFORMANCE
Al Ahly SC is reportedly eyeing left-back Mahmoud Bentaij from Zamalek SC following his stellar performance during the latest Cairo Derby.
The fierce rivalry between Al Ahly and Zamalek saw both teams end the match with a goal apiece, but it was Bentaij who stole the spotlight with his dynamic gameplay. After scoring the equalizer for Zamalek, he earned accolades from fans and critics alike, placing himself firmly on Al Ahly's radar.
According to Egyptian sports media personality Amir Hossam, Bentaij's recent showing has surged his stock, prompting Al Ahly's planning committee to evaluate potential moves for the player. “With Bentaij's contract set to expire at the end of the current season,” Hossam highlighted during his program, “the possibility looms for Al Ahly to negotiate with Saint-Étienne for his transfer.”
Bentaij, who is currently on loan from the French side, has seen his performances spark interest due to Zamalek’s arrangement allowing them to buy his contract for €1 million. Amid rising interest from various clubs, the urgency to secure Bentaij's services grows stronger.
Tamer Abdel Hamid, former Zamalek star, emphasized the necessity for the Zamalek board to act swiftly on the purchase option of Bentaij. “Bentaij is a fantastic player, and the administration needs to activate the purchase clause today rather than delay it,” Abdel Hamid expressed on the program Stadium Al-Mahwar.
Bentaij's notable display has made it clear he is not just another player but has become pivotal for Zamalek's campaign this season. With contract negotiations on the horizon, Zamalek faces the challenge of reinforcing its roster without losing one of its key assets.
Despite Zamalek's intention to exercise the purchase clause, the pricing remains problematic. The €1 million required could potentially complicate negotiations with Saint-Étienne, especially if other clubs express interest as well.
“Zamalek must prioritize Bentaij as he has become integral to our achievements this season,” said another source close to the team's management.
The Egyptian Premier League's competitive nature places additional pressure on Zamalek to hold on to Bentaij, especially with rival clubs circling the prospect of his talents. The recent derby showcased not only his scoring ability but also his strategic positioning, making him invaluable to Zamalek's future plans.
Fans and officials alike are hopeful for Zamalek to act decisively on this front. With the club's standing affected by each transfer decision, securing Bentaij appears to be one of their top priorities. The need for swift action is echoed among experts who have assessed his performance. Bentaij's blend of skill and defensive aptitude could prove transformative if he continues on this path.
The left-back’s contributions couldn’t have come at a more pivotal time, and his future now hangs in the balance as executive decisions loom on the horizon.
Since joining Zamalek, Bentaij has established himself not only as one of the league's best defenders but also as someone who can change the game with his offensive capabilities.
With the season progressing, Zamalek’s management faces the crossroads of contract negotiations. The evaluations conducted by their planning committee will determine the alignment of their squad for the remainder of the season.
Should other clubs continue to express interest, Zamalek must weigh their options carefully. Bentaij’s future could redefine his career either with Zamalek or potentially another top club, adding to the drama of the Egyptian football scene.
With the right decisions, both clubs could benefit from Bentaij's future, whether he remains with his current team or draws attention from other clubs across the continent.