Zamalek does not intend to hire a new foreign coach, at least in the foreseeable future. The club’s management has decided to renew its confidence in current interim coach Ahmed Abdel Raouf, allowing him to remain in his position until further notice.
Zamalek had previously announced that Abdel Raouf would only coach the team for the Tala’ea El-Gaish match and the two Egyptian Super Cup matches, after which the club would permanently appoint a foreign coach to succeed Yannick Ferrera.
However, according to journalist Amr Gaballah, who is close to the Zamalek management, the club has not entered into any negotiations with any foreign coach. Abdel Raouf enjoys strong support from Hussein Labib and his administration and will continue in his position for the foreseeable future.
The decision to retain Abdel Raouf likely stems from Zamalek’s financial crisis, which prevents them from bringing in a high-profile European coach. Furthermore, John Edward believes that the former Baladeyet El-Mahalla coach possesses the tactical acumen to become a top coach in the future.
Other reports suggest that Abdel Raouf will only continue for the next three matches after the current international break, after which a new foreign coach will likely be appointed. This new coach would then have the opportunity to familiarize himself with the players and begin a pre-season training period during the Africa Cup of Nations break, which is expected to last approximately six weeks.
It’s worth noting that Abdel Raouf led Zamalek to a 3-1 victory over Tala’ea El Gaish, followed by a penalty shootout win against Pyramids after a goalless draw in regulation time. However, he then suffered a 2-0 defeat against Al Ahly in the Egyptian Super Cup final.
