Mustafa Shobeir, the first-team goalkeeper of Al-Ahly Club, revealed the behind-the-scenes details of renewing his contract with the Red Devils, noting that there were negotiations regarding including a penalty clause.
Al-Ahly Club had announced two days earlier the renewal of Mustafa Shobeir's contract for two additional seasons, beyond the remaining season in his current deal, meaning he will stay with the Red Devils until summer 2029.
Mustafa Shobeir said in statements to Al-Ahly TV: "My presence at Al-Ahly is a blessing from God... I am at home, and what lies between me and Al-Ahly is not merely contracts; I am one of the club's sons, and everyone must understand that it is impossible for me to contradict any policy of the club."
He added: "Regarding the renewal, the matter did not take as long as some believe... It is true that we held several sessions, but there was a misunderstanding among some people who thought my agent was talking about having a penalty clause, and that this issue delayed the renewal. This talk is incorrect."
He continued: "We held a session before the training camp and agreed on not including a penalty clause. After the camp, one of the officials spoke with me and explained the reasons for not adding such a clause. I understood the matter because this is the club's system, and they believed that including this clause would not be appropriate at present."
He went on: "The club initially agreed, then we disagreed over the contract duration. Eventually, the club changed its decision, and I respected that decision. In the end, I renewed my contract without a penalty clause."
He further stated: "There was some misunderstanding among certain parties. Regardless of my will and the will of my father, Ahmed Shobeir, our name is linked to the club. Al-Ahly has greatly favored us, and I am currently the main goalkeeper for both Al-Ahly and the Egyptian national team. The club played a major role in my reaching this status."
He continued: "My message to the fans? I thank them for their attendance and support, and I hope no one interferes between us in any matter. As long as we remain united, we will crown ourselves with all championships."
Regarding the victory against Smouha, he said: "Praise be to God, it was a difficult match, but all league matches are like this, as are all Al-Ahly matches... All teams come to face Al-Ahly in the same way, relying on defensive consolidation."
He added: "We must continue striving and taking necessary measures. Praise be to God, He honored us and granted us victory in the final minutes today."
Mustafa Shobeir concluded his remarks by saying: "The beginning was somewhat difficult, but the most important thing is achieving victory. Winning makes us forget all negatives. Therefore, achieving victory remains our main goal during the current period."
