Al Ahly's technical director, Moroccan Hussein Amouta, is reorganizing the team's defense ahead of the October 11 match against Zamalek. With Amr El-Gazar injured and undergoing surgery in Germany, Amouta is considering new defensive options. Egyptian player Ashraf Darí has become a priority for the team, given his experience in high-stakes matches.
The team's medical staff has informed Amouta that Yaser Ibrahim, another key defender, is expected to be medically ready for the Zamalek match. However, Amouta remains cautious about Ibrahim's physical and technical readiness. The coach is monitoring several players, including Darí, Yasin Merai, and Hadi Riad, as well as Ibrahim's progress in training and upcoming friendly matches.
The team's upcoming friendly matches against Libyan side Ittihad Misrata, Egyptian side Misr El-Maqasla, and Petroliat Asyut in the Egyptian Capital Cup on October 7 will be crucial in evaluating the readiness of Darí, Merai, and Riad. Amouta favors Darí due to his experience but is also concerned about his recurring injuries, which may impact his participation.
In another development, Al Ahly's management has stated that it will not oppose the departure of players Mohamed Hani or Yaser Ibrahim in the January transfer window if a suitable offer is received and the player wishes to leave. However, the final decision will depend on Amouta's assessment of the team's needs.
Al Ahly's management has a clear policy regarding player transfers, where receiving an offer and a player's desire to leave does not automatically guarantee approval. The management will consult with Amouta to determine if the player is needed for the second half of the season. If Amouta insists on retaining a player, they will remain with the team until the end of the season.
The club has denied reports of agents Anwar Shaloufa and Omar Abu Shakra meeting with Yasin Mansour, the club's vice president, to request a signing bonus for Hani and Ibrahim in exchange for renewing their contracts. The club has stated that the current offer to the duo is final and will not be increased.
Contract negotiations have stalled due to Hani and Ibrahim's requests to modify certain terms of the offer. Ibrahim wants a 10-million-pound signing bonus, while Hani seeks to remove a 25% participation clause and have his total payment guaranteed. The club's management is yet to respond to these demands.
Key points
- Al Ahly is preparing for the Zamalek match with a possible change in its defense lineup.
- The club is open to letting go of players Mohamed Hani or Yaser Ibrahim if a suitable offer is received.
- Contract negotiations with Hani and Ibrahim have stalled over requested modifications to their contract terms.
