Club Zamalek is making significant strides in maintaining their competitive edge following plans to extend the contracts of key players Nasser Maher, Nabil Emad Donga, and Ahmed Hamdy. As the current season heads towards its conclusion, the club is focused on ensuring that these essential players remain an integral part of their future.
The management committee has laid out a detailed plan to secure contract extensions for Maher, Donga, and Hamdy after the season ends, with Maher’s contract running until 2028, Donga until 2026, and Hamdy until 2027. These proactive steps are taken not only to strengthen the team for upcoming challenges but also to prevent a repetition of past incidents where players were allowed to enter free agency status, creating stress and uncertainty for both the team and its fans.
As articulated by the club's planning committee, the aim is to avoid the scenario they faced recently with star player Ahmed Mostafa Zizo, who became embroiled in contract disputes and negotiations that lingered into the final days of his existing deal. There is a growing pressure on the club to finalize these negotiations effectively and on time.
Ahmed Hossam Mido, a former player and now member of the Zamalek planning committee, highlighted the club’s commitment to balancing financial stability while securing the necessary top talent. He stated, "We are defending our rights in all fairness, and no one can force us to act against our will because we are persistent in fighting for Zamalek's rights and interests.” This declaration showcases the club's determination to enhance its position while navigating the delicate landscape of player contracts.
Mido also expressed his aspirations for Zamalek’s future compared to their rivals, asserting, "I wish Al Ahly would come to play against Zamalek to demonstrate their strength, knowing they would lose if the match occurred." Such statements not only reflect his confidence in Zamalek as a leading club but also its readiness to face its rivals head-on.
Meanwhile, the issue surrounding Ahmed Mostafa Zizo remains a contentious point for Zamalek. As a source indicated, the club is preparing for an urgent meeting with Zizo and his father to discuss renewing his contract, which expires at the end of the current season. This urgency stems from Zizo’s right to sign with any club during this transitional period. The management is focused on preparing a suitable contract proposal that aligns with offers Zizo has reportedly received from abroad, demonstrating their commitment to retaining his talents.
Complicating matters is Zizo’s involvement in a recent legal matter pertaining to damages from a vehicle incident while at Zamalek. Reports have surfaced stating Zizo was implicated in a case involving an outstanding repair bill for his damaged car, which was estimated at 3.8 million Egyptian pounds. Still, sources close to Zizo reveal that the player has not received official notification regarding the complaint, and the car remains unclaimed, creating further distractions as negotiations proceed.
Despite these challenges, Zamalek remains resolute. The administration has successfully navigated contract extensions for players Mahmoud Hamdy El-Wansh and Abdullah Said, showing their ability to manage player relations effectively. As leaders resolve the situation regarding Zizo and focus on upcoming matches, the overall commitment remains steadfast to retain essential personnel crucial for the team's success.
In parallel, Al Ahly recently made headlines, with forward Wisam Abu Ali opining that he does not foresee any of Zamalek's players joining his team anytime soon. He emphasized that Al Ahly is the better team, unfazed by the competition and boasting top talents like Ahmed Ashour and goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy, whom he lauded as the league's best. His remarks encapsulate the ongoing rivalry between Zamalek and Al Ahly, which adds an element of suspense to the unfolding narrative within Egyptian football.
As Zamalek prepares to embark on their discussions regarding key player contracts in the coming days, the management is keen on outlining their plans, reinforcing their commitment to preserving the integrity and competitiveness of the club in the evolving landscape of football.
