Zamalek issued an official statement Saturday evening confirming the dismissal of coach Yannick Ferrera.
Egyptian media outlets had reported on Friday that the board of directors had agreed with sporting director John Edward to terminate the Belgian coach’s contract following a decline in results and sharp criticism of the team’s recent performances.
Zamalek delayed officially announcing Ferrera’s dismissal while negotiations continued regarding the penalty clause in his contract, reportedly $300,000, equivalent to more than 10 million Egyptian pounds. The club is currently unable to pay this amount due to its severe financial crisis.
It is reported that Zamalek officials met with Ferrera, but the outcome of this meeting is still unknown. It remains unclear whether the coach insisted on receiving the full amount of his contract or if he will only receive a portion of his outstanding dues.
Ultimately, however, Ferreira was informed of his dismissal, and Zamalek confirmed that Ahmed Abdel Raouf would take over as interim coach. His tenure will extend to the Egyptian Super Cup, which kicks off next Thursday with Zamalek facing Pyramids FC.
The decision to appoint Abdel Raouf seems largely logical, given that Zamalek is searching for a foreign coach and needs time to select the best option. Furthermore, any new coach would lack familiarity with the team’s inner workings, making it unfair and an unnecessary burden to place him in charge for the Super Cup.
Ahmed Abdel Raouf was appointed last week as Ferreira’s assistant coach, replacing the resigned Hazem Emam. He also worked with the Belgian coach in the recent 1-1 draw against Al Ahly Bank.
Abdel Raouf previously worked as an assistant to Patrice Carteron in coaching Zamalek, and he also had a famous experience with Baladeyet El Mahalla, starting with bringing them back to the Egyptian League after a long absence, but he failed to stay with them and they were relegated to the second division.
