Egypt's Al Ahly Club has issued a statement expressing its disapproval of recent comments made by national team coach, Hassan. The club emphasized that it will not tolerate any remarks that undermine the rights or dignity of its players, particularly captain Mohamed El-Shenawy. Al Ahly stated that it had delayed responding to Hassan's comments until after the team's match against Angola, in order to prioritize the national team's interests.

The club's statement highlighted its long history of supporting national teams, often at the expense of its own interests. Al Ahly noted that it has previously participated in major tournaments, including the FIFA Club World Cup, without its international players, in order to bolster the national team. The club emphasized that every player who wears the Al Ahly jersey represents the club's values and will not be subjected to disparaging comments.

Al Ahly specifically criticized Hassan's comments regarding El-Shenawy, which the club deemed unacceptable in both form and substance. The club also took issue with Hassan's remarks about the club's role in preparing players for the national team. Al Ahly stressed that it has consistently provided players for the national team and will continue to do so, but expects a level of respect and professionalism in return.

The club's statement also addressed Hassan's comments on the Egyptian football league, which Al Ahly deemed to be undervaluing the league's quality and importance. Al Ahly emphasized that it will not be party to such views, which it sees as limited and misguided. The club expressed its appreciation for the efforts of Hani Abou-Rida, the president of the Egyptian Football Federation, in recognizing El-Shenawy's value and status.

Al Ahly's statement concluded by expressing its disappointment and frustration with Hassan's comments, while also reiterating its commitment to supporting the national team. The club is now awaiting a response from the Egyptian Football Federation regarding the coach's remarks. The incident has sparked a heated debate about the relationship between clubs and the national team, as well as the role of coaches and players in Egyptian football.

The controversy surrounding Hassan's comments has highlighted the complex dynamics at play in Egyptian football. The national team has been preparing for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, and Hassan's remarks have raised questions about his approach to team selection and preparation. Al Ahly's response has demonstrated the club's commitment to protecting its players' interests and dignity.

The Egyptian Football Federation has yet to respond to Al Ahly's statement, but it is expected to take a stance on the matter soon. The incident has sparked widespread interest and debate among Egyptian football fans, who are eagerly awaiting a resolution to the controversy. The outcome will likely have implications for the national team's performance and the overall state of Egyptian football.

Key points

  • Al Ahly Club expresses disapproval of national team coach Hassan's comments on player Mohamed El-Shenawy
  • Club emphasizes its commitment to supporting national team while protecting players' rights and dignity
  • Incident sparks debate about relationship between clubs and national team in Egyptian football

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.