John Edward, Zamalek’s sporting director, issued an official statement responding to the hostile chants he faced from the White Castle fans during Friday’s match against Dekedaha in the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup Round of 32.
The fans present at Al-Salam Stadium chanted against Edward for the first time, protesting coach Yannick Ferreira’s decision to award Mohamed El-Sayed the penalty kick, despite the chants directed at the young player for refusing to renew his contract with Zamalek.
John Edward wrote in his statement, “I accepted the job believing in you and driven by my trust in a fan base that understands that loyalty isn’t just a chant in the stands, but rather a stance in times of adversity. I know your sincere support and feel it everywhere I go. I also excuse your anger when it flares up, for the anger of a lover only comes from a loving heart.”
Edward emphasized that matters within Zamalek are extremely complicated. The discussion here concerns the club’s major economic crisis following the withdrawal of the 6th of October Stadium, and the resulting inability of Hussein Labib’s management to meet its financial obligations.
Edward continued in his statement, “I tell you honestly, if you knew the details we know and the obstacles we face, you would have excused us. We have always known you as a conscious and noble fan who never abandons your beloved team, no matter the circumstances. I am not accustomed to running away from confrontation.”
He concluded, “Zamalek has never witnessed a more difficult or complex period in its history than this one. But our faith in you and your ability to persevere and support you is what makes us certain that we will overcome it together, as our club has always done.”
Zamalek is preparing for a very complex match against Al-Bank Al-Ahly next Thursday. A defeat there could increase calls for Yannick Ferreira’s dismissal just days before the Super Cup, which begins with the semi-final against Pyramids on November 6.
