Zamalek SC, the defending champions of the CAF Confederation Cup, has recently made waves with the announcement of Christian Gross as their new manager. The Swiss tactician steps in after the unexpected departure of Portuguese coach Jose Gomes, who left Zamalek earlier this month to take the managerial role at Saudi Arabia’s Al-Fateh. The announcement came on November 24, just before their group stage match against Enyimba, set to take place at the Cairo International Stadium.
Gross returns to Zamalek, where he had previously successful tenure during the 2018/19 season, leading the team to its first CAF Confederation Cup title and marking the club's first continental trophy win after 16 years. His previous relationship with the club ended abruptly due to disputes over contract negotiations with then-chairman Mortada Mansour. Now, having returned, Gross faces the arduous task of reviving his team with key players sidelined due to injuries.
The team’s current injury woes include defenders Mahmoud Bentayg, Mostafa Zenari, and Hamza Mathlouthi, who are confirmed unavailable for the upcoming games. Veteran captain Mahmoud ‘Shikabala’ Abdel-Razek is also working to regain fitness following his own muscular injury. Zamalek has reported optimism, having recently secured a strong 4-0 victory against Ghazl El-Mahalla, which places them only one point behind league leaders Masry.
Looking forward to their fixture against Enyimba, Gross’s debut as manager will be pivotal. Reports indicate his presence was felt even before his formal announcement, as he attended Zamalek's narrow win over Masry, observing the team's strategies. With the team performing under the pressures of both domestic and continental football, the cohesion and spirit will be put to the test against Enyimba.
Meanwhile, the club's board faces pressure not only from management on-field but also concerning player retention and recruitment off-field. Recently, there have been reports linking several Zamalek players with moves away from the club. One such player, Mohamed Shehata, has attracted interest from Al-Fateh following Gomes's recruitment, but Zamalek's management is reportedly unwilling to let him go, citing his integral role within the squad.
Complications arise as Al-Ahly, Zamalek's fierce rivals, are also eyeing talent from Zamalek's ranks, particularly defender Mustafa Al-Ash, who has entered discussions with both clubs. It appears Al-Ahly is seeking to sway Al-Ash through indirect negotiations, but Zamalek's board is also making efforts to secure the player as part of their future plans.
Aside from concerns surrounding potential departures, players' contract negotiations are simultaneously at the forefront. There are hints from within the club’s hierarchy concerning the future of star player Zizo, who is expected to renew his contract imminently post the clash with Ceramica Cleopatra. Ibrahim Abdel-Gawad, during his segment on “On Sport,” suggested Zizo’s father has confirmed terms have been agreed upon, and only the formal signing remains.
The dynamics at Zamalek continue to evolve as they prepare for their next match scheduled for December 2. This next phase is more than just football; it encapsulates the complex web of contracts, injuries, and coaching strategies as they aim for success both domestically and on the continental stage. What may serve as nostalgia for fans recalling Gross’s past achievements could also spark hope for renewed success as he reclaims the managerial helm at one of Africa's most storied clubs.
With the CAF Confederation Cup group stage pressing forward, every match will be key not just for points, but also for building momentum and solidarity within the squad. The task facing Gross is massive, but his experience and familiarity with Zamalek’s ethos could light the path to reclaiming their glory. Only time will tell if this historic club can navigate through its current turmoil and emerge stronger.
