Zamalek, the defending champions of the Egyptian Premier League, stumbled in the first round of the new season after drawing with Al-Ittihad Alexandria in their match held on Friday evening.
Zamalek drew 0-0 with Al-Ittihad Alexandria in a match played as part of the first round of the Egyptian Premier League. The encounter took place at Cairo International Stadium, in front of Zamalek's fans who continued to show their creativity and gathered in large numbers to follow Moataz Gamal's squad at the start of their journey in the new season.
Behind Zamalek's Stumble
Zamalek faced numerous crises recently following their Egyptian Premier League title win, which could have led to a heavy defeat at the start of their campaign. However, the draw was satisfactory for a large segment of their fans.
An Unknown Coach
The previous Egyptian Premier League season concluded amid controversy over the identity of Zamalek's new coach. Moataz Gamal had temporarily led the team without being informed about his future at the end of the competition.
The sports management began searching for a foreign coach to take charge, contacting several names. However, this effort ended with the departure of the sports director, returning control to the board of directors, which decided to retain Moataz Gamal.
Delayed Preparation Period
Zamalek's delay in appointing a permanent coach, amidst disputes between the former sports management and the club's board, resulted in a late start to their preparation period.
Zamalek conducted their preparation camp in the New Administrative Capital under Moataz Gamal's leadership, but it was too late as the new season (which has already begun) was about to start.
Incomplete Squad
Things did not go as Moataz Gamal had hoped, as the team suffered from an incomplete squad while starting their preparation late.
The crisis manifested in Abdullah El-Said's failure to join the team camp, along with Angolan player Chico Banza, and Juan Bezerra, who officially requested to leave Zamalek.
Departure of a Team Star
During the past summer transfer window, Hossam Abd El-Magid left Zamalek to join Ludogorets in a professional move, causing the White Knights to lose one of last season's star players.
Hossam Abd El-Magid participated in 41 matches for Zamalek last season, totaling 3,561 minutes, reflecting his importance to the team. The defender successfully scored 6 goals.
Registration Ban
The previous crisis affecting Zamalek, namely the registration ban, naturally persisted, preventing the club from signing any new players during the past summer transfer window.
