Egyptian football analyst Diaa El-Sayed has emphasized that Al Ahly, one of Egypt's most prominent football clubs, has been grappling with defensive issues for the past two years. According to El-Sayed, the club's management should prioritize signing foreign defenders to address this problem. He made these comments during an appearance on the "Number One" program hosted by journalist Mohamed Shabanah.
El-Sayed expressed his concerns about the team's defensive line, stating that the issue has persisted for two years without a viable solution. He also touched on the situation surrounding goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy and his relationship with coach Hossam Hassan. El-Sayed mentioned that he was unaware of the reasons behind their reported disagreement but emphasized the importance of finding a resolution that benefits the national team.
The analyst shared his thoughts on several players, including Omar Faied, who is currently playing abroad. El-Sayed wished for Faied to continue his career in a foreign league, suggesting that returning to the Egyptian Premier League and joining Al Ahly might not be the best decision. He cited Faied's tendency to be loaned out frequently as a potential issue. El-Sayed also expressed support for Mohamed Abdelmonem, who is currently playing for French club Nice.
El-Sayed discussed the potential transfer of Mohamed Hani to Turkish club Trabzonspor, stating that he would not oppose the move. He suggested that Yasser Ibrahim, who is 34 years old, might have been a better candidate for departure, presenting an opportunity for younger players to step up. El-Sayed reiterated that Al Ahly's defensive struggles have been ongoing and require urgent attention.
According to El-Sayed, the most effective way for Al Ahly to resolve its defensive issues would be to sign two foreign defenders. He stressed that a solid defense is crucial for achieving success and winning titles. El-Sayed's comments highlight the challenges faced by Al Ahly in maintaining a strong defensive lineup.
Turning his attention to the Egyptian national team, El-Sayed discussed the team's upcoming matches against Angola and South Sudan. While he believes these matches are within Egypt's reach, he also cautioned against complacency. El-Sayed expressed his opinions on several players, including Ali Mahmoud, who has shown promise with Enppi but has yet to make a significant impact with Al Ahly.
El-Sayed concluded his remarks by highlighting the importance of strategic planning and player selection for the national team. He expressed confidence in coach Hossam Hassan's abilities, given his prior experience with some of the players. The analyst's comments provide valuable insights into the current state of Egyptian football and the challenges faced by Al Ahly and the national team.
Key points
- Al Ahly has been struggling with defensive issues for two years.
- Signing foreign defenders is crucial to resolving Al Ahly's defensive problems.
- The Egyptian national team faces upcoming matches against Angola and South Sudan.