Taha Ezzat, head of the competitions committee at the League of Clubs, spoke about the reality of combining his work in Egypt and the UAE, and responded to the criticism he faced due to his affiliation with Zamalek. He also addressed the points deduction crisis and the decision to crown Al Ahly as champions of the season before last.
Speaking on Al Nahar channel about combining work in Egypt and the UAE, Taha Ezzat said: "I was continuously following up on my work in both Egypt and the UAE, and there was no conflict. Currently, I am in Egypt and have concluded my work in the UAE."
Continuing on his affiliation with Zamalek and its impact on his work, he said: "Anyone in Egypt may be affiliated with Al Ahly or Zamalek, but I focused on my work. For me, I distinguish between work and affiliation. I apply the regulations, and in the end, I was attacked by the fans of both teams. There was a board of directors monitoring my work, and thank God, no complaints were filed against me."
He added: "Regarding Al Ahly winning the title the season before last and the decision to deduct 3 points instead of 6, I believe there is no comment on judicial rulings. The regulations were referred to the Olympic Committee and the International Court. I do my job to the best of my ability, and I may be right or wrong, but in the end, what governs us are the regulations."
He added: "In Egypt, we need every word to be clarified more clearly so that people understand the regulations precisely and there are no doubts."
He emphasized: "The issue of playing many matches at Cairo Stadium is difficult and is linked to other factors. We have a problem with the large number of clubs, but there are new constructions for various stadiums. In the end, you are bound by specific committees that determine which stadiums are suitable for hosting matches."
He concluded: "The League of Clubs does not object to anything, but the most important thing is that the stadium is safe, ensures the safety of the fans, and allows us to provide a distinguished television broadcast."
He continued: "Asyut Petroleum chose to play its matches at Borg El Arab Stadium because the team's stadium was not suitable. What matters to me in the end, and my top priority, is that the players and fans leave the match safely."
He revealed: "The merger is a new experience with initial challenges, but things will improve over time. Sharqia Enppi will initially play its matches at Enppi Stadium, and it has the opportunity to improve its stadium. We may see the team's matches in Sharqia in the future."
Regarding the clubs participating in Africa, he said: "Last season, we agreed with the clubs participating in Africa and established a clear regulation stating that you have 3 days before each match, whether at home or away. If we can help you with anything additional, we will do so. All clubs have their schedule from the start of the season to arrange all their affairs, and there are no postponements for any match."
He ended his remarks by mentioning an amendment to the regulations of the Capital Cup, saying: "I made an amendment to the Capital Cup regulations, as participation in the tournament in the new season must be with the first team. By 'first team,' I mean that ages must start from 16, and the first team's coach must be present."
Zamalek won the Egyptian League title last season by a one-point margin over second-placed Pyramids.
The Egyptian League kicks off this Friday evening with a match between Wadi Degla and Zed at 5:00 PM.
