Ahmed Eid Abdel Malek on Hossam Hassan, Zamalek, and Egyptian Football
In a recent interview with Al-Nahar, former Egyptian football star Ahmed Eid Abdel Malek shared his insights on various aspects of the sport, offering a comprehensive view of the current state of Egyptian football. From his perspective on the national team to the challenges faced by Zamalek, Abdel Malek provided a deep dive into the issues and opportunities within the game.
Hossam Hassan and the Current Egyptian Generation
Abdel Malek believes that current Egyptian national team coach Hossam Hassan is fortunate to be leading the team at this moment. He highlighted the balance within the squad, which combines experienced players with emerging talents. The presence of stars like Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, along with a diverse midfield, gives the team a realistic chance to compete for African titles and achieve success in the 2026 World Cup.
Challenges and Aspirations for Al-Dakhleya
Currently leading Al-Dakhleya, Abdel Malek discussed his experience with the club. He noted the team’s strong competitive spirit and its ambition to return to the Premier League. He also mentioned the need for new signings in the upcoming January transfer window to strengthen the team’s ability to compete. Abdel Malek also reflected on the differences between the Premier League and the Professional League, emphasizing the toughness of the latter and the greater media coverage of the former.
Zamalek’s Struggles and Future Prospects
Abdel Malek attributed many of Zamalek’s challenges to financial constraints that affect player signings and team stability. However, he emphasized that the team is still in contention, always a strong presence in competitions despite any difficulties. He also discussed the technical errors during the first ten matches under the leadership of Yannick Ferreira, and the fact that the fans are more aware of the details of what is happening. Abdel Malek also noted that comparing Ahmed Sayed Zizo and new player, could be unfair because of the different circumstances they face.
The Evolution of Egyptian Football
Abdel Malek also touched on the evolution of Egyptian football, noting the shrinking gap between Egyptian and foreign coaches. He praised former coach Ferreira as the best foreign coach to work in Egypt, highlighting the importance of learning from his motivational and disciplined approach. He also expressed his surprise at the exclusion of goalkeeper Ahmed El-Shennawy from the national team, considering him to be among the top contenders for the best goalkeeper in Africa.
Abdel Malek’s insights offer a valuable perspective on the state of Egyptian football, highlighting the challenges, opportunities, and the importance of nurturing talent and supporting the sport’s development at all levels. His words reflect a deep understanding of the game and a genuine passion for its future.
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